Education ministry eyes TVET rollout in all constituencies

The Ministry of Education, through the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), has unveiled a plan to promote inclusive and equitable access to skills training across the country, with a strong focus on underserved regions and vulnerable groups.

Speaking during a presentation on access and equity in TVET before Education Committee led by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, TVET PS Esther Muoria said the government's commitment to establishing at least one Technical and Vocational College (TVC) in every constituency.

Currently, 238 constituencies are served, leaving 52 without a TVET institution.

“Our goal is to leave no constituency behind. We are committed to ensuring that every Kenyan, from every walk of life, has access to the technical skills they need to build a better future,” she said.

In the 2023/2024 financial year, 15 constituencies — including Nyali, Kiambaa, Kibra, Wajir West, Kajiado South, and Narok North — were prioritized for new institutions. The remaining 38 are set to be phased in during subsequent years, pending budget allocations.

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She said the strategic investments are aimed at ensuring that every Kenyan, regardless of geography or circumstance, can access quality vocational education and training.

“We have made tremendous progress, but our journey isn’t over. The establishment of these TVCs will open new doors for thousands of young Kenyans,” she added.

The PS further said, the Ministry is expanding infrastructure in existing institutions through partnerships with development agencies.

Under the World Bank’s EASTRIP project, three regional centres of excellence are being set up — in building technology (Meru), textile and garment making (Kisumu), and marine and blue economy (Kenya Coast).

The GoK/AfDB TVET project (Phase III) is also delivering critical infrastructure, including workshop blocks in 10 institutions (four of which serve special needs students), hostels in underserved constituencies, and incubation centres.

Additionally, assistive devices have been distributed to institutions catering for students with disabilities such as Machakos TTIB, Karen TTID, and Sikri Technical Institute, promoting more equitable learning.

“Inclusivity is not a favour. It is a right,” said the Ministry official. “By equipping special needs institutions and offering scholarships, we ensure every learner is given the tools to succeed.”

The Ujuzi Manyattani mobile training program is designed to reach remote and pastoralist communities.

The model is operating in collaboration with institutions like Nyeri National Polytechnic and Kiirua TTI, the initiative delivers practical training in fields such as tailoring, solar installation, and masonry — directly into villages and Manyattas.

“We bring the classroom to the learner. Geography, poverty, or tradition should never stand in the way of education,” she said.

Graduates receive nationally recognised certificates and start-up toolkits. Since inception, 1,668 youth and women have graduated, with 88 percent launching small businesses, generating over Sh 150 million annually.

“We’ve seen young women leave forced marriages and become business owners. We’ve seen former cattle rustlers start solar installation companies,” Muoria noted.

The Ministry is also developing a policy — in partnership with Interpeace and the Baptist Church Parklands — that uses vocational training to reduce conflict in Kenya’s north.

“92 trainees from Lamu and Tana River completed three-month training in multiple trades. They were assessed through the Recognition of Prior Learning framework, providing formal certification and employment pathways,” said Muoria.

“Peace cannot thrive in poverty. By equipping communities with skills, we offer hope, purpose, and alternatives to violence.”

The PS also pointed out that plans are also underway to elevate special needs TVET institutions to National Polytechnic status.

This will give them greater autonomy in curriculum development and resource management, allowing them to tailor programs more effectively for students with disabilities.

A draft policy on TVET training in marginalized areas is in its final stages. Once adopted, it will formalize the affirmative action strategies needed to sustain long-term equitable access.

“TVET is the bridge between talent and opportunity. Through these programs, we are not just training individuals — we are transforming communities,” Dr Muoria said.