The Government is focused on improving technical and vocational training to address the skills gap, according to Principal Secretary of the State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Esther Muoria.
Muoria highlighted that TVETs are essential for providing youths with the skills and knowledge necessary for the job market and entrepreneurship. Recent figures from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) show that over three million Kenyans, predominantly youths, are unemployed.
In a speech delivered by Dr. Bernard Isalambo at the 3rd graduation ceremony of the Cascade Institute of Hospitality in Thika, where approximately 350 graduates received diplomas and certificates, Muoria emphasized that TVET training is crucial for equipping graduates with advanced skills to remain competitive globally.
Dr. Isalambo affirmed the Kenyan government’s dedication to addressing the skills gap and building a skilled workforce vital for the nation’s economic advancement. He noted that the national vision for TVET includes creating a workforce that is not only job-ready but also innovative and adaptable to evolving industry needs and the global economy.
He added that the Ministry of Education is collaborating with private investors in the technical and vocational sector to enhance skill development. “The Ministry values private investors like Cascade Institute of Hospitality for their partnership with the government in offering technical and vocational training to the youth,” Dr. Isalambo said.
He stressed that acquiring advanced skills will help graduates compete in the global job market and foster entrepreneurship. Dr. Isalambo urged TVETs to continuously update their training programs to equip Kenyan youth with necessary expertise and competencies.
He also encouraged institutions to collaborate with industry players to strengthen their curricula and ensure quality assurance. “Adhere to the TVET Act and work closely with regulatory bodies,” he advised.
James Nyoro of Cascade Institute of Hospitality mentioned the institution’s commitment to establishing partnerships and global connections for mutual benefit. He highlighted their collaboration with 80 hospitality institutions nationwide for student internships and job placements.
Nyoro praised the Kenya Kwanza administration under President William Ruto for its efforts to find job opportunities abroad for Kenyan youths, noting that exporting skilled labor could boost technical training in Kenya.
Former Thika MP Eng Patrick Wainaina Wajungle urged the government to create a favorable environment for investors and industries to generate more jobs and support economic growth. Wainaina recommended that President Ruto consider enacting the Safeguard (Amendment) Bill he proposed, which seeks to restrict cheap imports or impose high duties to protect local manufacturers from the impact of imported goods.
Graduates, represented by Elvis Kabue and Lillian Muthoni, encouraged their peers to move away from relying solely on white-collar jobs and instead pursue technical courses that offer job security and opportunities for starting their own ventures.
