At least 767 students graduated at the Kericho Township Technical and Vocational College during its inaugural graduation ceremony, marking a major milestone in equipping local youth with practical, employable skills for the job market.
The graduating class included 455 female and 312 male students, showcasing the college’s commitment to inclusivity and broad-based technical training.
The Hospitality, Tourism, Fashion Design, and Cosmetology department produced the largest cohort with 353 graduates, followed by Building and Civil Engineering with 148, and Electrical and Electronics Engineering with 103. Other departments included Computing and Informatics (34), Business Studies (30), Liberal Studies (29), Agriculture and Environmental Studies (25), and Mechanical and Automotive Engineering (14). Additionally, 31 students were certified through the Recognition of Prior Learning programme.
Speaking during the event, the Regional Director for TVET, Peter Cheruiyot, congratulated the graduates for completing their courses and emphasized the importance of applying the skills they had acquired to drive personal growth, entrepreneurship, and national development.
“Technical and vocational education equips our youth with the knowledge, skills, and craftsmanship required to participate meaningfully in the economy. Your training is not just a certificate; it is your gateway to opportunities in industry, entrepreneurship, and innovation,” Cheruiyot said.
He highlighted government initiatives aimed at strengthening TVET institutions, including the expansion of modern training facilities, the introduction of digital learning tools, recruitment of additional trainers, and the implementation of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), the Dual Training Model, and the Recognition of Prior Learning programme.
Qualification levels showed that 386 students obtained craft certificates, 224 received artisan certificates, and 126 were awarded diplomas, reflecting the college’s diverse training offerings across multiple technical competencies.
Cheruiyot also praised the college’s leadership and training staff for their dedication to delivering high-quality, industry-aligned education and practical skills development. He emphasized their pivotal role in preparing graduates for Kenya’s evolving workforce.
“Technical education bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and the demands of modern workplaces. It ensures graduates are job-ready and capable of contributing meaningfully to industry from day one,” he said.
The regional director urged the graduates to apply their knowledge and skills not only for personal advancement but also to contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s broader development. He emphasized that their training equips them to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, foster innovation, and play a pivotal role in driving the country’s industrial growth.
The graduation ceremony, held on the college grounds, brought together government officials, education leaders, industry stakeholders, trainers, parents, and students. Conducted under the theme “Empowerment for Excellence: Equipping Youth with Skills for Global Impact,” it underscored the institution’s commitment to producing graduates capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven labour market.
The graduation of 767 students marks a defining moment for Kericho TVET, highlighting the transformative impact of technical and vocational education in empowering youth with practical skills. With a new cadre of skilled graduates ready to enter the workforce, the college is firmly establishing itself as a centre of excellence in technical training and a key contributor to Kenya’s vision of a skilled, innovative, and globally competitive workforce.
By Gilbert Mutai
