The recent call for Form Four leavers who failed to meet the university entry grade in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses is a timely and essential step towards bridging the gap between education and employment in Kenya. This appeal, made by education experts, aims to provide an alternative pathway for students to acquire skills that are highly sought after in the job market.
Leading this initiative is Jackline Waithera, the Director of Gorgeous Technical Institute, who has been vocal about the importance of technical and vocational training in equipping young people with practical skills. Waithera emphasizes that, although university education is often seen as the primary goal for many students, it is not the only route to success. She encourages both parents and candidates who did not meet the university cut-off grade to consider TVET institutions, where they can pursue courses that will make them more employable.
According to Waithera, TVET courses play a crucial role in transforming Kenya into an industrialized, middle-income country. As the global economy evolves, so do the skills required to thrive in the job market. Vocational education provides specialized training in various sectors such as engineering, hospitality, agriculture, and construction, among others, where there is growing demand for skilled workers. These sectors are pivotal in driving economic growth, making TVET a vital component of the country’s future.
Furthermore, Waithera reassures students who may feel discouraged by their KCSE results that their education journey is far from over. The opportunity to join TVET colleges presents a fresh start, allowing them to gain skills that will not only enhance their chances of employment but also offer opportunities for self-employment. These technical programs often lead to certification that enables graduates to start their own businesses, thereby contributing to reducing youth unemployment.
In addition, Waithera urges students who are still planning to attend university to consider supplementing their degree programs with short technical courses. These additional qualifications can give graduates a competitive edge in the job market, making them more versatile and adaptable in a constantly changing workforce.
For those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, Waithera advocates for government support in funding TVET education. She calls on Members of Parliament to collaborate with technical institutions and use the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF) to sponsor students pursuing technical courses in their respective areas. This would help alleviate the financial barriers that many parents face, particularly given the challenging economic times.
The importance of psychological support for students who did not meet the university entry requirements is also highlighted. Parents such as Elizabeth Mutuka and Francis Ngugi urge the government and legislators to provide financial assistance and bursaries to help students pursue technical training. Their concern is that without support, these students may turn to negative coping mechanisms out of frustration.
In conclusion, technical and vocational education offers a practical and achievable route for students who did not qualify for university enrollment. By embracing this alternative path, these young individuals can develop skills that will set them on a path to success, while contributing to the nation’s economic transformation. The time to invest in TVET is now, and the support of both the government and the private sector is essential to making this vision a reality.
