The Kenyan government has revealed its collaboration with the United Nations (UN) to ensure that graduates from Technical and Vocational Centres (TVCs) are equipped with skills that are adaptable to both local and international work and entrepreneurial ecosystems. This collaboration aims to address the ever-evolving demands of the job market and foster sustainable development.
Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, the Principal Secretary (PS) of the State Department of Higher Education and Research, made this statement during the celebrations marking the UN World Youth Skills Day. She emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that youth acquire skills that guarantee competency and efficiency in the workplace.
“The collaboration with the UN aims to ensure that the skills our youth gain are not only relevant but also enhance their ability to contribute effectively to the economy and society,” Dr. Inyangala stated. “It is crucial to equip the youth with the necessary skills for fostering a culture of peace, maturing responsible global citizens, and promoting sustainable development.”
Dr. Inyangala noted that the UN’s requirements for market competency must be accompanied by a determination from technically skilled young people to promote peace and development. This approach aligns with one of the UN’s key pillars: ensuring that the world reaps the full economic and social benefits of these skills.
The Ministry of Education believes that the acquisition of technical skills will significantly improve young people’s ability to make informed employment choices within various industries. However, the PS emphasized the importance of preparedness to tackle conflicts that negatively affect education and work environments.
“Our fresh graduates are entering an environment fraught with challenges, including violence, a bulging youth employment crisis, a polarized online environment, and persistent economic inequalities,” Dr. Inyangala explained. “These issues threaten their futures and the overall stability of societies.”
The collaboration will also focus on providing youth with the skills necessary to navigate and mitigate these challenges. This involves promoting a culture of peace, responsible global citizenship, and sustainable development, which are essential for building a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
World Youth Skills Day, celebrated globally, highlights the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. In Kenya, this collaboration signifies a progressive step towards aligning the country’s educational outcomes with global standards and expectations.
In conclusion, the Kenyan government’s collaboration with the UN marks a significant stride towards enhancing the employability and entrepreneurial potential of TVC graduates. By focusing on competency, peace, and sustainable development, this initiative aims to prepare the youth for the dynamic and ever-changing demands of the modern workforce, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic and social stability.
