On 6^th June 2023, KEPSA, led by the Vice Chair of the Education Sector Board Ms. Priscilla Kerebi joined other strategic partners in the Conference on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) organized by AHK (German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Kenya) and held at a hotel in Nairobi. The conference was part of the many efforts in fostering collaboration between the private sector, government and development partners to transform TVET education. It aimed to explore the vast potential of TVET and shed light on the business opportunities it presents within the private sector including investment in accommodation facilities, infrastructure development and upscaling the establishment of factories in colleges, and the establishment of incubation centres for viable projects by the TVET trainees.

Maren Diale, AHK representative, while welcoming the participants fronted the conference as an opportunity to discuss and exchange business opportunities available in TVET to promote dual training in order to enhance employability and practicality in the TVET trainees. She discussed the importance of Public-Private partnerships (PPP) in driving TVET initiatives, fostering innovation, creating sustainable business opportunities and the benefits of collaboration between industry players and TVET institutions.

The PS – TVET, Dr. Esther Muoria, appreciated AHK for organizing the TVET conference which she termed as an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas for mutual benefits for the two countries in the TVET space and to enhance the relationship that already exists. She then shared extensively on the reformations that have taken place in the Kenyan TVET space since 2013 including the TVET Act 2013, TVETA, Competency-Based TVET curriculum and KNQA. She further shared on the opportunities available in the TVET pathways including investment in accommodation facilities, infrastructure development and upscaling, the establishment of factories in colleges, and the establishment of incubation centres for viable projects by the TVET trainees. She concluded by emphasizing on the government's commitment to promoting and strengthening TVET as a crucial pillar of the education system as she highlighted various initiatives, policies, and reforms aimed at enhancing the quality and relevance of TVET in Kenya. Her speech served as a powerful call to action, inspiring attendees to actively support and invest in TVET.

Ms Priscilla Kerebi while presenting on the Business Opportunities in TVET within the Private Sector, positioned KEPSA as the leader in championing for the dual training model in the country. She outlined the critical role of apprenticeships and internships, not merely as stepping stones but as powerful vehicles for equipping aspiring professionals with practical, on-the-job experience. She then provided valuable insights into the immense potential for collaboration between the private sector and TVET institutions emphasizing on the need for industry-driven curricula, apprenticeships, and internships to bridge the skills gap and create a workforce that meets the demands of the evolving job market.

Mr Bruno Backes, Head of Vocational Training Delegation of German Industry and Commerce for Eastern Africa (AHK), shared an example of the programs they have successfully implemented, showcasing the successful integration of TVET into the workforce and its contribution to economic development. His presentation emphasized the importance of industry-driven training programs, close collaboration between educational institutions and businesses, and the value of apprenticeships and internships in bridging the skills gap. His presentation served as an inspiring model for attendees, highlighting that it is possible to customize and replicate successful practices in Kenya.

Deputy Director of the Directorate of TVET Education, Mr. Frank Mukuna laid emphasis on access, quality and linkages as the end objective. Mr. Mukuna provided an in-depth analysis of the TVET ecosystem in Kenya, focusing on its current challenges, opportunities, and future prospects. He discussed the government's efforts to enhance the quality and relevance of TVET education, including curriculum reforms, infrastructure development, and industry partnerships and also shed light on the role of the development partners in transforming TVET education.

Mr Peter Pfaffe, Regional Manager of sub-Saharan Africa, iMOVE, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) at the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB), shared on the costs and benefits of in-company training mentioning that the industry must embrace this mode of training because its benefits outweigh the costs.

The conference also provided ample networking opportunities for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and establish meaningful collaborations. Participants from diverse sectors had the chance to engage with industry leaders, government officials, and education experts, enabling the formation of valuable connections and potential partnerships. The discussions collectively emphasized the importance of TVET in unlocking Kenya's economic potential. The event further sparked enthusiasm and commitment among participants to support and invest in TVET, paving a way for a skilled and adaptable workforce that will contribute to the nation's development.