CBE Now Firmly Embedded in Kenya’s Training System, Says CS Ogamba

Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Migos Ogamba has reiterated that Competency-Based Education (CBE) is now firmly embedded within Kenya’s training system, marking a significant shift towards skills-based learning aimed at producing graduates who are ready for the job market.

Speaking during the second joint graduation ceremony for Kericho Vocational Training Centres held at Kiprugut Chumo Stadium in Kericho County, the CS said the government has made major strides in aligning education and training with the needs of industry and the labour market.

“I commend national Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions for successfully implementing Competency-Based Education and Training since September 2023, marking a decisive shift towards skills directly aligned with industry and employment needs,” Ogamba said.

The Education CS noted that the adoption of CBE within the TVET sector is transforming how learners are trained by placing greater emphasis on hands-on experience, practical competencies and real-world problem-solving, as opposed to purely theoretical instruction.

He further observed that the TVET sector is experiencing a positive shift in public perception, with technical and vocational training increasingly recognised as a critical pillar of national development rather than a last resort for learners who miss out on university education.

“There is a growing national mindset shift. TVET is no longer viewed as an alternative option but as a national necessity that equips our youth with skills that drive productivity, innovation and economic growth,” Ogamba said.

The CS emphasised that CBE is designed to ensure learners graduate with practical competencies, transferable skills and workplace readiness, enabling them to seamlessly transition into employment or self-employment in today’s dynamic economy.

He called on industry players to continue partnering with TVET institutions to support curriculum development, industrial attachment and skills transfer, noting that strong collaboration between training institutions and employers is key to the success of competency-based training.

During the ceremony, hundreds of graduates from various vocational training centres in Kericho County were awarded certificates in different technical and vocational courses. The graduates were urged to apply the skills acquired to create employment opportunities and contribute to local and national development.

County leaders and education stakeholders present at the event praised the government’s continued investment in the TVET sector, citing improved infrastructure, expanded course offerings and increased enrolment as indicators of growing confidence in vocational education.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening CBE implementation across all levels of education, with a focus on ensuring that training outcomes match the evolving needs of the labour market and support Kenya’s broader development goals.