Nairobi: The full implementation of the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum has begun yielding positive results in Kenya’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. Preliminary assessment indicated that technical institutions were reporting improved practical skills acquisition and higher absorption of graduates in both the respective job market and related industries since the inception of the initiative.
According to Kenya News Agency, stakeholders at PC Kinyanjui Training Institute have hailed the Ministry of Education for supporting the transition from theory-heavy curricula to industry-focused training. Simon Thuo, Deputy Principal in charge of Administration at PC Kinyanjui, highlighted the significance of modernizing infrastructure and workshops to align training with industry requirements, stating the importance of benchmarking against industry standards to provide trainees with practical exposure comparable to the industry.
Speaking during a visit at the facility, Thuo noted that competition in the TVET sector was increasing, stressing the graduates while seeking job openings, hence the need to include skills that were compatible with the industry requirements. Mr. Paul Osoro, Registrar Administration, emphasized that the CBET curriculum’s practical approach has enhanced trainees’ readiness for the job market, noting the necessity of improving equipment and training environments to adequately prepare trainees.
Mr. Soitanae Kaleke, Dual TVET Coordinator, shared progress in dual training courses where students split time between classroom instruction and industry practice. He cited examples of successful absorption of trainees into industry, including Subaru Motors, Swiss Lenana Mount Hotel, and Primrose Food Express Limited, demonstrating the effectiveness of CBET in producing industry-ready graduates.
Registrar Academics, Jane Gatacha, explained that the CBET courses offered across departments ranged from three to six depending on the programme. She highlighted the modularization of courses, allowing trainees to progress efficiently and providing flexibility for industry absorption.
Mr. Joseph Ouma, Head of Research and Innovation, highlighted the institution’s achievements in fostering practical skills and innovation, citing significant growth in the research and innovation department and successes in various competitions. Brenden Katuva, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Coordinator, explained how RPL complements CBET, enabling professionals to validate their skills and access formal certification.
Simon Thuo highlighted the ongoing priority of improving infrastructure, particularly workshops in the building, mechanical, and electrical departments, to match equipment to industry standards. Osoro noted challenges faced in CBET’s implementation, particularly in harmonizing curricula across institutions and reducing theoretical content, but emphasized the modular approach’s effectiveness.
The introduction of CBET has been complemented by co-curricular activities and sports, fostering holistic development. The institution offers integration of gender-responsive initiatives and innovative programmes targeting women, particularly in greening industries, with support from JSN for women-focused programmes.
The Ministry of Education has been commended for supporting the shift to CBET, aligning training with Kenya’s labor market needs. Stakeholders praised the government’s role in ensuring trainees gain practical competencies and graduate with employable skills.
As PC Kinyanjui Training Institute continues to implement CBET, the institution remains focused on enhancing infrastructure, expanding industry partnerships, promoting research and innovation, and offering market-driven programmes. This multi-faceted approach demonstrates the transformative impact of CBET in equipping Kenya’s youth with the technical and practical skills required for the modern workforce.
