Mount Kenya University vice chancellor Deogratius Jaganyi has underscored the importance of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVETs) terming it as a key skills revolution institution.
Speaking during the inaugural graduation of the Equip Africa College of Medical and Health Sciences, Jaganyi said TVETs are critical in the global education system and the master key that can alleviate poverty.
“TVETs plays a vital role in preparing the required labour force of many countries and helps achieve sustainable development,” he said.
“TVETs’ mandate is focused on specific occupations and has allowed individuals to find skill-related jobs or start their own employment,” he added.
He further added that majority of students who sit KCSE every year are absorbed by TVET institutions.
“This cohort of students, make the bulk of the candidate population who qualify for training in the various TVET institutions,” Jaganyi said.
137,072 candidates who sat of their 2020 KCSE were enrolled in the TVET institutions.
Meanwhile, 6,617 who had qualified for university forfeited the slots and opted for TVET colleges.
Data shows 19 other candidates who scored A– also applied for courses in TVET. A majority (5,023) scored C+.
Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha attributed this to the reforms the government has been implementing in middle level colleges.
“I am happy to note candidates who qualify for university admission are increasingly embracing TVET courses,” he said.