The Principal Secretary for State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Esther Muoria has advised the youth to engage in practical knowledge and hands-on skills that are directly applicable to the job.
Muoria said TVET institutions were crucial because they major in offering practical skills and competence to the youths and stakeholders that enable them to become self-reliant and to create employment.
Muoria added that in today’s rapidly changing and fast-paced world, traditional education does not always equip an individual with skills that enable them to thrive in their careers.
“These TVET programmes often collaborate with industries to ensure that graduates are ready for jobs and possess the ability demanded by the employers,” said the PS.
The PS made the remarks in a speech read on her behalf by the Director of TVET in the Ministry of Education John Tuwei during the official opening of the 15th Higher Education Expo and Career Fair 2024 held at Kenyatta International Conference Centre in Nairobi.
The Expo that will run from February 29 to March 1, 2024, creates a space where all youths could transition from TVET institutions to the job market.
The PS highlighted that the theme of 2024 is to educate, equip and empower which encapsulates the focus on future skills needed for the labour market in the 21st century.
Muoria said that the State Department for TVET is currently implementing competency-based education and training which focuses on 70 per cent industrial training and 30 per cent classroom training.
The PS said the 70 and 30 per cent models have an element of viewer training that ensures that trainees were mostly in industry, were gaining knowledge in classrooms and were also angled to give trainees absolute skills required in the industry.
Muoria noted that the traditional skills alone are no longer sufficient, adding that the advent of the 21st century has brought a new set of skills that are crucial for individuals to succeed in their chosen fields.
“These fields are not confined to technical expertise but rather encompass a broader range which includes critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication and digital interest,” she said.
The PS said the ability to adopt innovation is vital in this era for constant technological advancement as TVET focuses on gaining 21st-century skills.
“TVET must also pay attention to mental health, as competitive nature and pressure to succeed can take a toll on an individual. Stress, anxiety and burnout are increasingly prevalent affecting trainees and professionals,” she added.
PS Muoria encouraged education institutions and workplaces to create an environment that prioritizes mental health, promotes work-life balance and offers resources for managing stress and seeking help when needed.
She urged entrepreneurs to educate, equip and nurture Kenyan youth to thrive and drive in their careers.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer Kenya School of TVET Edwin Tarno said that the institution would ensure all youths transit to TVET to acquire skills and create job opportunities after completion.
He singled out Data Analyst, Artificial Intelligence, Data Scientists and Analysts, Remote and Hybrid work specialist, E-commerce and digital marketing professionals, software developers, Cyber Security, Renewable energy technicians, Environmental Science, Logistic and Supply Chain Manager are some of the jobs which will be in demand by 2025 and urged the youth to pursue them.
By Sharon Atieno and Muchiri Job
