Technical, Vocational Education Training (TVET) PS Dr Esther Thaara Muoria has urged technical training institutions to implement more Competence-based Education and Training (CBE) programmes and work closely with the relevant industries to offer real solutions to the industry and society.
Speaking on behalf of the PS during Mitunguu Technical Training Institute’s inaugural graduation ceremony held on Friday, Acting Director for Technical Education Mr Joseph Njau said the future of Kenya’s development agenda was on technical skills, urging more young people to be part of the training.
Dr Muoria added that technical skills and innovations are critical to the future of Kenya in achieving Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
“The Government has invested heavily in modernizing and expanding Technical and Vocational Institutions to increase access, equity and quality TVET training. This has come with the realization and appreciation of the contribution of the service industry in fostering social economic growth,” said Dr Muoria.
The PS said the government has so far committed huge resources to improving infrastructural development, equipping institutions and capacity building of the trainers.
This, she added, is aimed at improving access, relevance, quality, and equity of the TVET programmes, and further lauded the institution’s Management led by the board chairman Mr Kenenth Gitonga for efforts made towards building the requisite human capital and knowledge base to drive the development agenda.
“It is gratifying to note that Mitunguu Technical Training Institute, which has today released 937 graduands to the job market, offers diverse academic programmes which give students a wide choice. I also note with satisfaction that the institute is a centre of excellence in ICT,” she said.
The institute’s principal Ms Lucy Mukiri said their aim was to continue producing a competent and versatile human resource that meets ever-changing market needs.
“To support government initiatives, the Institute offers hands-on skills training that will spearhead industrial growth and eradicate poverty through wealth creation,” she said.
Mr. Gitonga on his side called on the government to support the institution in coming up with adequate infrastructure to accommodate the growing population.
“Our population currently stands at 3, 000 and we expect this to grow to 10, 000 in the next few years. We are therefore seeking the government’s support so that we can impart proper skills to our trainees,” said Mr Gitonga.
By Dickson Mwiti
