On August 16, 2024, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) hosted the Dual TVET Partnership Symposium in Mombasa. This dynamic gathering brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, ranging from institutions of higher learning to industry leaders, all united by a common goal: to harmonize talents and forge a robust partnership between the education sector and the industry for the prosperity of the Coast Region.

The symposium attracted prominent players from both the education sector and various industries within the region. Leading educational institutions such as Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, Likoni Technical & Vocational College, and Ahmed Shahame Mwidani Technical and Vocational College were well-represented, highlighting the significance of this initiative. The presence of these institutions underscored the region's commitment to nurturing talent and equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global economy.

On the industry side, the symposium saw participation from key companies such as Enkanashe Caterers And Events, Multi Mills Fabricators, Ngacho Limited, Kwick Fabricators, Halpha Metal Works and Fabricators, Gideon Wheels Limited, Karlkennz Electric Limited, Greif East Africa Ltd, Tavevo Water and Sewerage Co. Ltd, Sifapowerlink, and Synergetic Engineering & Advisory Partners. These companies represent the diverse sectors driving the region's economy, and their involvement in the symposium marked a significant step towards bridging the gap between industry needs and educational outcomes.

The symposium's keynote address was delivered by the esteemed Dr. Ehud Gachugu, who set the tone for the day's discussions with a compelling presentation on global trends from the 2020s to the 2030s. Dr. Gachugu emphasized the need for a quick and strategic response to these trends, which are reshaping the global landscape in profound ways.

He highlighted several key global trends, including the recalibration of globalization, the emergence of new manufacturing hubs, and the critical importance of addressing climate change. Dr. Gachugu noted that Kenya has the potential to position itself as a key player in the global manufacturing arena, but this requires a concerted effort to adapt to these emerging trends.

In addition to addressing global economic shifts, Dr. Gachugu explored the rapid technological advancements that are transforming industries worldwide. He discussed the expansion of the gig economy, the remote work revolution, and the growing role of AI and automation in the workplace. As Kenya seeks to leverage these opportunities, the emphasis on continuous upskilling and the development of digital skills has never been more critical.

He also touched on the burgeoning fields of cybersecurity, fintech innovations, e-commerce, and digital entrepreneurship, all of which present vast opportunities for job creation and economic growth. Dr. Gachugu urged both educational institutions and industry players to prioritize data-driven decision-making and invest in nurturing the next generation of data analysts and scientists.

One of the symposium's highlights was the presentation by Sheillah Naino Sempele Malonket, CEO and Founder of Enkanashe Caterers And Events. Malonket emphasized the vital role that soft skills play in complementing technical training within the TVET system. She called for a more holistic approach to education that integrates both technical expertise and essential interpersonal skills, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and adaptable to the evolving demands of the job market.

The symposium underscored the importance of building an ecosystem that supports collaboration between learning institutions and industry partners. By fostering these strategic partnerships, the Coast Region can create a pipeline of skilled talent that meets the specific needs of its industries, driving economic growth and prosperity.

Notable attendees included Samira Abdallah, Principal of Likoni Technical & Vocational College; Jane Kariuki, Deputy Principal of Kenya Coast National Polytechnic; Geoffrey Oketh, General Manager of Greif East Africa; Bedel Silali, General Manager of Gideon Wheels Ltd; and Eng. Mohamed Hassan of Synergetic Engineering & Advisory Partners. Their insights and contributions further enriched the discussions, paving the way for future collaborations.

The Dual TVET Partnership Symposium marked a significant milestone in aligning industry needs with educational outcomes in the Coast Region. The event facilitated meaningful dialogue, identified key areas for collaboration, and set the stage for actionable outcomes that will shape the region's future.

Moving forward, the symposium's participants are committed to continuing this dialogue, developing concrete strategies to address the region's unique challenges, and working together to create a thriving ecosystem where education and industry are harmoniously aligned for the benefit of all.

The event concluded on a high note, with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared vision for the future—a future where the Coast Region's youth are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to contribute meaningfully to Kenya's economic growth and development.