TVET Institutions Urged to Partner with Industry Players for Growth
Dr. Esther Muoria, the Principal Secretary for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), has urged TVET institutions in Kenya to establish partnerships with industry players to benefit young people.
She noted that such collaborations will help the industry identify market gaps that TVET institutions can fill through the development of Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) courses that meet market demands.
Muoria made the remarks during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Kenya Coast National Polytechnic (KCNP) and Isuzu EA Company.
She stated that the Kenyan government has put in place relevant TVET policies to guide the revival of the TVET sector and enable it to provide skilled and employable graduates that will help achieve the Kenya Vision 2030 aspirations.
Isuzu EA is a motor vehicle assembler in East Africa that sells a wide range of Isuzu vehicles. The company’s main activity is the production, marketing, and sale of Isuzu commercial vehicles and diesel engines.
The Managing Director of Isuzu EA, Ms. Rita Kavashe, stated that the company is committed to collaborating with education institutions to create customized automotive programs that respond to emerging needs.
Kavashe added that the company’s focus is to grow sustainably with its communities while building experts who will continue to add value to themselves and future generations.
Through the partnership, Isuzu EA will give back to the community by creating avenues of learning through attachment opportunities, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) for the learners while on attachment, a maintenance stipend at the rate agreed by both parties, donation of vehicle parts for training purposes, and post-training employment opportunities subject to availability at Isuzu EA.
The partnership will empower KCNP students to carry out in-depth, hands-on research and garner insights into the intricacies of technology advanced vehicles.
Students will study a wide range of parts, technology, systems, engines, ignition systems, vehicle chassis, and body engineering.
The Chief Principal of KCNP, Ms. Mary Muthoka, lauded the partnership initiative, noting that it is a significant milestone for the institution.
She emphasized that it is the responsibility of the industry to collaborate with various education institutions to enhance skills development among students and future talents.
Muoria also urged Kenyan youth to embrace digital literacy since the government plans to make the country a global powerhouse and promote the development of software for export, creating job opportunities for many Kenyans.
Recently, 1,811 graduates from KCNP were conferred with their certificates and diplomas in various trades to join the world of work, while Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) accredited the Polytechnic as a Qualification Awarding Institution to implement the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
TVET Institutions Urged to Partner with Industry Players for Growth
