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KEPSA
7th Floor, South Tower, Two Rivers, Limuru Rd, Nairobi.
info@kepsa.or.ke
On February 20, 2024, KEPSA in collaboration with GIZ Kenya, and The Federation of Employers Kenya (FKE), conducted a Staff meeting on the Implementation of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) Curriculum and the significance of the Dual TVET Apprenticeship program at the Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf. The focus of the meeting was on implementing the and emphasizing the role of Dual TVET in addressing youth unemployment and promoting inclusivity in skill development in Kenya.
The Dual TVET Training Program is an innovative approach that combines apprenticeships within companies and vocational educational institutions, representing a departure from traditional attachment methods. The Program aims at bridging the gap between education and industry, while informing strategic collaborations, ensuring that TVET curricula aligns seamlessly with the dynamic needs of industries. The insights gained will shape meaningful partnerships and address workforce skill gaps for sustainable economic growth.
Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf, known for its commitment to inclusive education, serves as a platform for hearing impaired students to pursue higher education and gain technical skills. During the meeting, speakers highlighted the importance of equipping students and graduates with market-relevant skills to address issues arising from traditional teaching methods, which often results in half-baked graduates entering the job market.
Dr. Ehud Gachugu, the Director, Youth and Jobs at KEPSA, stressed the need for the private sector to cultivate a new mindset conducive to fostering partnerships and understanding collaboration dynamics within educational institutions. He also mentioned KEPSA's efforts to combat unemployment, with 10% of program slots reserved for Persons with Disability (PWD).
Some of the challenges of the Dual TVET Program for PWDs as highlighted during the discussion included; communication barriers, societal stereotypes, and misconceptions. Additionally, potential employers claimed to misunderstand the capabilities of Persons With Disabilities, accessibility in work environments, and post-training employment navigation, further underscoring the importance of proactive measures for program success and inclusivity. Proactive solutions provided included but not limited to; employing sign language interpreters, creating awareness and advocating for inclusive hiring practices among companies.
The partnership aims not only to transform individual lives through skill development but also to contribute to a more inclusive and equal opportunity-oriented workforce in Kenya. The initiative envisions a future where Persons with Disability can thrive through meaningful employment and skill development.