On 17^th November 2023, KEPSA was represented by Dr. Ehud Gachugu, Director of Ajira Digital Project and Youth Employment and Ms. Priscilla Kerebi, Vice-Chair of the Education Sector Board, at the National TVET Conference held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi from November 15 and culminated on 17. The objective of the Conference was to enhance Industry-Driven Skills Development for Youth Employability and was aimed at addressing challenges such as high youth unemployment through strategic reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

The conference, supported by the 'Promotion of Youth Employment and Vocational Training' program, addressed key reforms in TVET, emphasizing industry partnerships, competency-based education, and the innovative Dual Training approach. Noteworthy achievements were highlighted, including the successful piloting of Dual Training, industry-specific curriculum development, and the enrolment of trainees in collaboration with over 65 companies. The program's expansion, jointly financed by Finland and Germany, aims to institutionalize Dual Training across Kenya, promoting inclusive, labour market-relevant education.

Dr. Ehud Gachugu, while participating in the panel on Skills Evolution- Bridging Labour Market Gaps for a Dynamic Workforce, shared insights on the importance of adapting to the changing workforce landscape. Dr. Gachugu highlighted Ajira Digital's role in providing digital skills to the youth and aligning them with market demands. He stressed the need for continuous learning to meet evolving job requirements. Dr. Gachugu's remarks underscored Ajira Digital's commitment to empowering the youth with relevant skills, contributing to a more adaptable and competitive workforce.

Ms. Priscilla Kerebi, emphasized the critical need for a gender database in TVET to inform policy decisions. She advocated for partnerships with KEPSA, particularly through Ajira Digital, to bridge gender gaps in skills development. Ms. Kerebi stressed the importance of gender-inclusive policies, supporting programs like Ajira, and actively working to increase female representation in TVET. She also registered a commitment to fostering an inclusive, gender-sensitive TVET landscape and addressing gender disparities in skills development for a diverse workforce.

The conference generally underscored the crucial role of TVET-industry linkages in shaping a skilled, competitive, and inclusive workforce for Kenya's sustainable development.