This archive report was first published on 2 December 2019.
On December 2, 2019, the State Department of Vocational and Technical Training revealed that it needs Sh63 billion to address a 190 percent student population growth.
Principal Secretary Kevit Desai stated that the department has 270,000 students in technical training centres and 150,000 in vocational centres, with a projected increase of over 400,000 students in technical institutes and 200,000 in vocational centres in January.
The government has invested in 174 centres across the country, but Desai emphasized that more needs to be done to meet the growing demand for technical skills, as employers increasingly prioritize technical skills over academic qualifications.
However, under-funding remains a significant challenge, with the PS seeking to increase the budgetary allocation from Sh15 billion to Sh63 billion, with a focus on capitation.
Desai also highlighted the importance of transitioning trainers to the Teachers Service Commission, which has improved the quality of skills offered and aligned the scheme of services to the needs of technical training.
He called for a partnership with the private sector to support the development of vocational training.
