KENAPCO Strengthens Collaboration with State Department for TVET to Advance Skills Development

By John Kariuki

The Kenya National Association of Private Colleges (KENAPCO), led by its Chairperson Dr. Ekrah Ndung’u, has committed to deepening collaboration with the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to address youth unemployment and enhance skills development.

This follows a high-level consultative meeting between KENAPCO leadership, the Principal Secretary for TVET Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, and the CEO of the Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council (CDACC). During the session, KENAPCO officially presented a memorandum outlining key issues affecting private TVET institutions, paving the way for strategic interventions to support the sector.

Key Outcomes of the Engagement

One of the most significant resolutions from the meeting was the commitment by PS Dr. Esther Muoria to champion the inclusion of private TVET college students in the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funding scheme. This move is expected to ease the financial burden on learners and expand access to quality vocational training.

In addition, it was agreed that private TVET institutions will be incorporated into all capacity-building and training programs organized by line ministries, ensuring equitable support for both public and private institutions. The meeting also resolved to enhance engagement between government agencies and private institutions to guarantee equal treatment and opportunities within the sector.

KENAPCO emphasized the need for increased funding to CDACC to strengthen its operational efficiency and enhance curriculum delivery. Stakeholders were also briefed that the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) will cease to be an examining body by July 2026, and institutions currently offering KNEC examinations were advised to seek transition guidelines from the relevant authorities.

The Principal Secretary further assured KENAPCO that the government will explore additional private funding options similar to HELB to support students in private colleges. Members were also encouraged to embrace the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative and ensure compliance with all existing government regulations.

Commitment to Quality Training

Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Ndung’u reaffirmed KENAPCO’s commitment to aligning private TVET institutions with national education goals, particularly the modularized Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum. She emphasized the importance of industry partnerships to improve trainees’ transition into the labor market, reducing unemployment and contributing to Kenya’s economic growth.

“This engagement is a big win for private TVETs and the learners we serve. It sets the stage for stronger collaboration and increased opportunities for students,” Dr. Ndung’u said.

The initiative underscores KENAPCO’s proactive role in advancing education and training reforms and positions private colleges as key players in producing a skilled and competitive workforce for Kenya’s growing economy.