TVET Excellence 100th Anniversary Celebration At Kabete National Polytechnic

TVET Excellence 100th Anniversary Celebration At Kabete National Polytechnic. Education is widely regarded as the key to unlocking employability, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is often seen as the master key. On July 29, 2024, Kabete National Polytechnic proudly celebrated a century of TVET excellence, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s educational history. This centennial celebration brought together key sector players and stakeholders to reflect on the achievements and future of TVET in Kenya.
A Historic Milestone
The centenary celebration at Kabete National Polytechnic, located in Nairobi, was a landmark event. The institution, originally established as the Native Industrial Training Depot in 1924, has evolved over the past century into a leading center for technical and vocational education. This milestone underscores the enduring significance of TVET in shaping the future of Kenya’s workforce.
Keynote Addresses And Insights
Dr. Esther Muoria, Principal Secretary of TVET, highlighted the importance of providing a comprehensive portfolio of evidence to demonstrate achievements in promoting credibility during assessments in TVET institutions. Her address underscored the need for rigorous standards and transparent evaluation processes to maintain the quality of TVET programs.
Dr. James Mwangi, CEO of Equity Holdings Group, emphasized the need to foster skills with an entrepreneurial mindset. He stressed the importance of encouraging self-employment and cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit among students. Dr. Mwangi’s remarks were a call to action for integrating entrepreneurship into TVET curricula.
Patrick Nyangweso, CEO of KNCCI, urged industry leaders to play a more active role in training youth to meet industry demands. He highlighted the need for curriculum updates to align with global market needs and advocated for greater investment in research among TVET students. Nyangweso also called for integrating entrepreneurship training with private sector participation to enhance the relevance of TVET programs.
Addressing Labor Market Challenges
Understanding the labor market is crucial for preparing young people effectively. Kenya faces challenges due to the absence of a structured labor market information system, a tool that has significantly benefited developed economies. Establishing such a system would help balance supply and demand within the country, ensuring that the skills taught align with market needs.
Incorporating Sustainability And ICT Skills
Incorporating sustainability into the TVET agenda can positively impact the business environment. Enhancing communication between TVET institutions and the private sector will strengthen their collaboration and ensure that TVET programs are responsive to the evolving needs of the industry.
Additionally, integrating ICT skills training into TVET programs is essential for helping young people adapt to global automation changes. As technology continues to advance, equipping students with digital skills will be critical for their success in the modern workforce.
Notable Attendees
The celebrations were graced by several notable figures:
- Dr. Kipkirui Langat, Director General of the TVET Authority, who has been instrumental in overseeing the development and implementation of TVET policies.
- Dr. Ehud Gachugu, KEPSA Director of the Ajira Digital Project, who has been a key advocate for integrating digital skills into TVET training.
President William Ruto: was the chief guest at the event, marking the significance of the centennial celebration. Earlier in the year, President Ruto launched the TVET torch at Nyeri National Polytechnic as part of the year-long celebrations. The torch traveled across Kenya’s 47 counties before arriving at Kabete National Polytechnic for the grand centenary event.
Conclusion
The 100th-anniversary celebration at Kabete National Polytechnic was a fitting tribute to a century of TVET excellence. As Kenya looks to the future, the lessons learned from this historic milestone will continue to guide the evolution of TVET, ensuring that it remains a vital component of the nation’s educational and economic development. The event not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for future innovations and collaborations in technical and vocational education.