Today 30^th of July, KEPSA proudly joined the Nation in celebrating 'TVET at 100,' commemorating a century of transformative Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Kenya. This historic event highlights the pivotal role of TVET in shaping the country's workforce and driving economic growth, underscoring KEPSA’s commitment to fostering skilled talent and advancing employment opportunities for the youth. The event organized by the Government through the Ministry of Education in Partnerships with key TVET stakeholders and other key development partners being held at the Kabete National Polytechnic commenced on Monday 29^th to 31^st of July 2024.

The event that was officially opened on Monday by Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, EGH the Prime Cabinet Secretary of Kenya, under the theme ‘If Education is the Key to employability, TVET is the Master Key’ aims to position TVET to effectively respond to labour market and societal needs for enhanced employability, decent work, Entrepreneurship and lifelong learning. The celebrations additionally focuses on the Access and Participation in TVET by youth and adults and to Promote Stakeholder engagement by Private sector, and development Partners.

‘The government, through the Ministry of Education, is committed to strategically positioning TVET to meet the demands of an evolving global landscape marked by rapid technological advancements, demographic shifts, and climate change. In preparing our youth for the 4th Industrial Revolution and beyond, with particular focus on burgeoning fields such as artificial intelligence and advanced robotics, TVET education and training remains the master key to employability; unlocking the potential investment and opportunities that lie ahead.’ Noted Hon Musalia Mudavadi.

In the twenty-first century, it has become imperative for TVET institutions to evolve and adapt to the rapidly changing global landscape, focusing on innovative teaching and competency indicators. TVET in the twenty-first century has had to embrace innovative teaching approaches and focus on developing the necessary competencies to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Through the TVET@100 celebrations some of the issues that will be addressed include The Future of Work, addressing the issue of skills mismatch and the collaborations required between Industry and Academia to spearhead industrial growth while promoting in-demand skills required in the labour market.

In attendance were also representatives from different organizations including: the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Federation of Kenya Employers, Konza Technopolis, Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations among others.

In a panel session on Innovative approaches and initiatives to enhance quality and relevance of TVET, Dr Ehud Gachugu, the Global Director- Youth and Jobs and Ajira Digital at KEPSA emphasized the need for industries’ role to shift from profit driven to sustainability driven. ‘There is a critical importance of enhancing communication and understanding between TVET institutions and the industry. This collaboration is essential, as the industry has strong motivation and the necessary resources to bridge the present skills gap. Given that 90% of the Kenya’s economy is informal, it is crucial to discuss how to make this sector more productive which will significantly impact competitiveness and boost the economy’

Dr Ehud also went ahead to highlight that futuristically, it is projected that 50% of existing jobs will be automated in 10 years with only 5% being eliminated.  Additionally, 9 out of 10 existing jobs will require digital skills, and will likely to be affected by Automation and job augmentation as a result of AI. Therefore, emerging ICT skills must be integral to ongoing training. Building up digital skills prepares the youth for a global workforce, addressing the substantial global labour shortage. Ensuring that young people acquire the skills needed to tap into both local and global opportunities, while the industry acts as an intermediary to address skills mismatching, is essential for quality and competitiveness.

KEPSA through strategic partnerships has continued to champion for youth empowerment innovation and entrepreneurship through the different programs in the Youth and Jobs Department. Such initiatives include the Dual TVET Project that aims to enhance skills development and workforce readiness among graduates in the country. The Program targets to equip over 6000 Kenyan youth with skills by the year 2026 and has partnered with over 60 TVET Institutions, currently having 600 students undergoing the Dual Training. The program pushes for the reimagining of traditional onboarding processes, transforming classrooms into crucibles of innovation, and equipping trainees with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workforce.

Giving a keynote speech, Dr. James Mwangi, Group Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Equity Group Holdings, explained that There is a mismatch between the skills being produced and the skills required in the labour market, and to ensure we are developing the skills that the economy needs, it is crucial to focus on the sectors where TVET institutions excel. Despite a significant supply of blue-collar jobs, the economy has not yet developed enough jobs for these skills, the economy remaining heavily reliant on technical skills within a highly SME and MSME-driven landscape.

‘We need to call on the nation to utilize TVET fully to address the mismatch of skills required in the labour market. Over the past generation, there has been a shift of focus from TVETs to Universities that has led to underfinancing of TVETs, despite their critical role in producing market-required skills. There is a need to change the brand and perception of TVET, as underinvestment and lack of focus have resulted in a lack of innovation and subpar quality compared to global standards.’

Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Technical Vocational Education and Training during her remarks noted that TVET plays a crucial role in driving national socio-economic development by equipping individuals with practical skills needed in the labour market. Over the last 100 years, TVET has shaped Kenya's workforce. The unique characteristics of TVET programs make them a key driver of economic growth, facilitating the transition to digital and green economies.

‘Kenya has established policies that align with global standards, ensuring TVET institutions are equipped and financed to meet relevant standards. Inclusivity and access are prioritized, with scholarships and financial aids supporting marginalized communities to ensure no one is left behind. Quality assurance and certification maintain high standards in TVET delivery.’

By improving accessibility, providing interactive and personalized learning experiences, and supporting lifelong learning can transform vocational training. By leveraging digital technologies, Kenya can build a resilient and inclusive TVET system that prepares its workforce for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. KEPSA’s initiatives, such as the Ajira Digital Program, demonstrate the practical benefits of integrating digital tools into education and training systems. This aligns with the goals that supports sustainable development through quality, relevant, and inclusive education and training. These efforts not only empower the youth with essential digital skills but also contribute to broader economic development.

Changing the social perception of TVET is necessary to highlight its importance and benefits. TVET programs' practical skills are vital for Kenya's economic growth, and continuous investment in quality assurance and industry partnerships will further enhance its impact