Kipsoen: Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) is emerging as a cornerstone of Kenya’s economic development strategy, according to Cabinet Secretary for Education, Migos Ogamba. Speaking at the inaugural graduation ceremony of Kipsoen National Polytechnic in Keiyo North Sub-county, Ogamba emphasized that TVET is integral to the Bottom-up Economic and Transformation Agenda (BETA) and is no longer seen as a secondary option but as vital to industrialization, job creation, and inclusive growth.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ogamba highlighted the need for technicians, artisans, innovators, and entrepreneurs to drive the country’s development. He stated that the government has taken significant steps to improve TVET by expanding access, reforming curricula, and strengthening the connection between training and the workplace. These efforts aim to produce graduates who can meet the demands of the economy and create opportunities.
Ogamba challenged the 983 graduates to focus on problem-solving and value creation rather than merely seeking employment. He pointed out that Kenya faces challenges in sectors like agriculture, construction, manufacturing, energy, ICT, transport, and the creative economy, offering opportunities for skilled individuals.
The Cabinet Secretary underscored that the success of national polytechnics is measured by the enterprises created, innovations commercialized, and communities strengthened. He urged graduates to utilize their certificates as tools for entrepreneurship and community improvement, rather than just credentials.
Ogamba also highlighted the modularization of training programs under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the integration of industry into the training process, which ensures that students gain practical experience in the workplace. He mentioned the government’s efforts to upgrade equipment, recruit more trainers, and enhance industry partnerships, leading to a doubling of TVET enrolment. The goal is to train two million Kenyans by the end of the year.
Additionally, Ogamba announced that a new law is being developed to ensure full government funding for tertiary education, recognizing education as an investment. This move aims to eliminate financial barriers for students pursuing education.
Joseph Bittok, the Principal of Kipsoen National Polytechnic, called for funding for a state-of-the-art engineering complex to enhance the institution’s capacity for industrial innovation. Meanwhile, Keiyo North MP Adams Kipsanai emphasized the importance of technical skills and urged graduates to engage in continuous learning to remain competitive. He also encouraged graduates trained in agricultural extension to educate local farmers on modern practices.
Kipsanai expressed gratitude for the government’s funding of modern student hostels and called for the acquisition of more land to support the polytechnic’s expansion.
