The government is banking on the Technical, Vocational Education, and Training (TVET) institutions to drive the industrialization agenda and accelerate economic growth in the country.
TVET Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Esther Thaara, noted that the Kenya Kwanza Government was keen to take the country through an industrial revolution by investing in skilled labour needed to transform the dream into a reality.
Speaking in Nairobi during the Curriculum Development, Assessment Certification Council (CDACC) CEO handing over ceremony, Dr. Thaara said that the CDACC plays a very key role not only in the TVET sector but also in ensuring that the Government realizes its industrialization agenda.
The PS reminded the incoming CEO Prof. Kisilu Kitainge who takes the mantle after Joseph Njau, that there was a big responsibility ahead of him.
“There is a need to capacity build TVET CDACC for it to fully achieve the big mandate ahead of it in the coming future,” said Dr. Thaara.
She continued to urge the state to focus on youths, saying, “TVET CDACC plays a very key role in producing skilled youth who will work in the industrial sector.”
The Principal Secretary also urged Prof. Kisilu Kitainge to ensure a strong and elaborate system of assessment and monitoring is in place, calling upon the TVET body to benchmark from other bodies within their mandate, and borrow what is best so as to put it in practice for the prosperity of the TVET sector in Kenya.
“Let us also ensure that there is continuous development and review of curriculum and automation of processes, taking advantage of ICT,” addressed Dr. Thaara.
Dr. Thaara also took the chance to acknowledge and appreciate the significant contributions made by the outgoing CEO, Mr. Joseph Njau, even as the body was conducting a bid farewell to him.
“Under his visionary leadership, TVET CDACC has achieved remarkable milestones, fostered partnerships, and implemented innovative initiatives that have transformed the landscape of technical education in our country,” reiterated the Principal Secretary.
Equally, Dr. Thaara termed the incoming CEO, Prof. Kitainge, as a person with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of technical and vocational education, since he has made significant contributions when it comes to policy development and implementation, thus enhancing the quality and relevance of TVET in our nation.
“Prof. Kitainge, we are confident that your dynamic leadership, innovative vision, and passion for empowering the youth through technical education will steer TVET CDACC to even greater heights,” said Dr. Thaara, citing that Prof. Kitainge’s appointment is the beginning of his challenge and that the body has full faith in his ability to lead TVET sector towards a successful future.
Consequently, Dr. Thaara urged the esteemed Council members to extend their utmost cooperation and support to Prof. Kitainge, and embrace change, new ideas, and work together to ensure a seamless transition and continuous growth under his leadership.
“As we witness this transition, I assure Prof. Kitainge and the entire TVET CDACC team of the State Department’s unwavering support,” emphasized Dr. Thaara while assuring continuous amplification of efforts, to ensure that TVET institutions as centers of excellence are equipped to address the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Dr. Thaara called for unity, saying that it is the only tool for upholding the values and principles that TVET CDACC stands for and building a stronger, more vibrant technical education ecosystem.
“Collaboration remains at the core of our endeavors,” added Dr. Thaara encouraging partnerships with industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and international organizations, to enrich their programs, facilitate knowledge transfer, and enhance the employability of their graduates.
The Principal Secretary extended her heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing CEO for his exemplary leadership and dedication, saying that Njau’s contributions laid a strong foundation for the future of TVET CDACC.
She equally offered congratulations and best wishes to Kitainge as he takes the mantle, hoping that he steers TVET CDACC to greater heights, contributing significantly to Kenya’s socio-economic development through quality technical education and training.
By Juma Nalami and Silus Waswa
