On 10^th June 2024, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) held a joint meeting with the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) to discuss a collaborative partnership in developing the Plastic Recycling Curriculum for Kenya. This meeting brought together key representatives from both organizations, highlighting the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing environmental issues. NITA was represented by Ms. Jane Kamau, Director of Industrial Training and Skills Development; Ms. Phyllis Kiplagat, Ag. Manager Research and Curriculum Development Department; and Mr. Moses Kamunge from the Research and Curriculum Development unit. KEPSA's delegation included Dr. Jackson Koimbori, the Senior Circular Economy and Climate Change Coordinator; Ms. Pracksidis Wandera, Admin Officer, Sustainable Inclusive Business; and Ms. Priscilla Kerebi, the Vice-Chair of the Educational Sector Board.

The proposed Plastic Recycling Curriculum aims to equip trainees with the knowledge, skills, and values to tackle plastic pollution effectively. This initiative is particularly timely given the increasing plastic waste problem in Kenya. The curriculum's objectives are comprehensive, focusing on integrating topics related to plastic pollution, environmental conservation, and sustainable waste management into the education system. It includes developing engaging training materials, such as National Occupational Standards (NOS) and Qualification Packs (QPs), and training institutions on effectively delivering the curriculum. By piloting the curriculum in select institutions and among plastic recycling practitioners, the project aims to gather feedback for further refinement, ensuring that the curriculum is both practical and impactful.

A critical aspect of the meeting was the discussion on the curriculum's objectives and the need for robust training materials. The curriculum will not only address plastic waste management but also foster a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship among trainees. By focusing on sustainable practices and the principles of the circular economy, the curriculum aims to transform how future generations handle plastic waste. Dr. Jackson Koimbori emphasized the significance of creating a curriculum that is not only educational but also actionable, empowering students and informal waste managers to become change agents in their communities. This approach is expected to lead to a broader cultural shift towards sustainability in Kenya.

During the meeting, the representatives from NITA and KEPSA also discussed the strategic importance of partnerships in ensuring the success of the curriculum. Both organizations recognized that collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities, is crucial for the sustainability and scalability of the initiative. To formalize their commitment, Dr. Koimbori and Ms. Kamau agreed to draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will guide future engagements. This MOU will outline the roles and responsibilities of each party, ensuring a structured and coordinated approach to the curriculum's development and implementation.

The commitment to this partnership reflects a broader vision of building a sustainable future for Kenya. By integrating lessons on plastic pollution and environmental conservation into the education system, NITA and KEPSA aim to cultivate a generation of environmentally conscious citizens. This initiative not only addresses an immediate environmental challenge but also promotes long-term behavioral change. As the Plastic Recycling Curriculum progresses from development to implementation, the collaborative efforts of NITA and KEPSA will play a pivotal role in driving this transformative agenda, ultimately contributing to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Kenya.