Education CS Unveils TVET Curriculum Overhaul, Introduces Two-Three Week Courses

The government has introduced changes to the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs days after the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) opened the portal for registrations.

Speaking during the first graduation ceremony of Ollessos National Polytechnic, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki revealed that there was a need for changes in the TVETs so that they can align and tend to the modern needs of the Kenyan youths so they don’t overstay in the job market.

Kindiki was reiterating sentiments by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, who outlined the changes in TVET.

Among the changes, Kindiki revealed that the curriculum for TVETs will be changed and reviewed to include short two- and three-week courses.

According to Kindiki, the previous curriculum was teaching concepts, formulas, and principles without considering skills that are much needed.

“We have revised the curriculum for TVETs to the Competency-Based Education and Training Curriculum for (CBET) TVETs to align it to the needs of the industry so that when you graduate there are people who need your skills,” Kindiki informed.

“Some of the opportunities we are getting for young people, especially under the labour mobility programme, are in areas in which we must develop quick courses, short courses two or three weeks, and then you have a skill and a certificate that helps you get a job locally and abroad,” Kindiki continued.

Furthermore, the government has introduced the Recognition of Prior Learning in TVETS. The DP revealed that the Cabinet has passed a policy that allows prior learning where TVET recognises prior knowledge acquired without going to school.

According to Kindiki, the Recognition of Prior Learning will allow such individuals to attend TVETs and TTIs for short periods and get awarded certificates so that they are not locked out of jobs for lucking certification.

Another change introduced is the Dual Training Policy, where institutions are required to offer practical training in an actual workplace where one is studying is relevant.

This policy requires the students to go there for industrial attachment, then post-training internship, and eventually be absorbed to work in those areas.

Kindiki has revealed that the government will not allow TVETs and other institutions to train theoretical graduates. The DP assured that the government was going to provide training grounds for the Dual Training Policy.

Education CS Ogamba revealed that the Ministry has increased enrolment to house over 8 million youths. 2024 KCSE students are currently enrolling for TVETs after KUCCPS officially opened the portal on February 14.

These new changes come after the Cabinet approved the proposals during its meeting at the Kakamega State Lounge on January 21, 2025.