Muraga Technical Training Institute (TTI) Principal Mrs Purity Murithi has raised concern over declining student enrolment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, attributing the trend to delays in government funding and disruptions in examination timelines.
Speaking during an interview in Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County, Mrs Murithi said the late release of the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results significantly affected student intake.
Unlike previous years when results were released in December, the 2025 results were announced in January, disrupting the usual transition of students into institutions for the January intake.
“We mostly target students who complete their exams in November for our January intake, but the delay interfered with our enrolment plans,” she explained.
She pointed out that besides examination timelines, delayed disbursement of government capitation, grants, and funding from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has worsened the situation. According to her, many TVET institutions rely heavily on HELB support to sustain student enrolment.
“Without this funding, students are unable to pay fees. Many who applied last financial year have not received any funds, forcing some to drop out due to inability to meet tuition and examination costs,” she said.
Mrs Murithi noted that continued funding delays resulted in the government failing to meet its ambitious target of enrolling two million learners in TVET institutions by 2025. She noted that current enrolment stands at approximately 700,000, far below the intended goal.
“If this trend continues, industries will feel the impact. Most skilled workers entering the job market, including those working abroad under the Kazi Majuu programme, come from TVET institutions. Without adequate support, we risk losing a generation of skilled youth,” she cautioned.
Despite the challenges, Mrs Murithi acknowledged the government’s efforts in promoting technical education. She noted that initiatives such as affordable training and modularised curricula have helped attract more youths, allowing them to acquire employable skills within a short period.
“We have managed to bring many young people out of the villages, including those who had lost hope. With sustained support, we can continue making progress,” she said.
She also commended the Kenya Kwanza government for investing in infrastructure development at Muraga TTI, including the construction of a modern student village that can accommodate up to 580 trainees.
However, she emphasised the need for a balance between infrastructure expansion and consistent financial support for learners, noting that many parents are financially constrained. She warned that without adequate funding, investments in facilities and equipment may remain underutilised.
In her appeal, Mrs Murithi encouraged young people across the country to enrol in TVET institutions, particularly Muraga TTI, where they can gain practical skills and certifications for the job market.
She also urged skilled individuals without formal qualifications, such as welders, masons, and electricians, to take advantage of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, which offers certification at a cost of Sh3,500.
Additionally, she highlighted short courses in areas such as baking, cosmetology, nail care, and computer skills, which target both school leavers and professionals seeking additional income opportunities.
“We have never had enough of cakes. Anyone can learn baking within two weeks and start earning. These short courses have the potential to transform lives,” she said, urging idle youth to take advantage of available training opportunities.
By Dickson Mwiti
