Over 100 skilled workers are set to benefit from the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme at Gichugu Technical and Vocational College (TVC), in partnership with the Gichugu Constituency National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) office.
Recognition of Prior Learning is a process that formally acknowledges the skills, knowledge, and competencies individuals have gained through work experience, informal training, or life experiences. The recognition enables them to attain nationally recognized qualifications or certifications.
According to Joseph Kimemia, the Principal of Gichugu TVC, the RPL journey began with 24 students, all of whom successfully sat and passed their examinations. He noted that one of the main challenges has been the inability of many skilled workers to raise the required examination fees to obtain their certificates.
“Some of them did not have the ability to pay or could not afford the examination fees. because of that we looked for a sponsor, and that is when we met with NG-CDF, who agreed to pay for the first 100 candidates,” Kimemia said.
To make the program more accessible, the institution has committed to conducting examinations both at the college and at the participants’ workplaces to ensure that the assessments do not interfere with their jobs or business operations.
“We thank the government for this program. In the execution of the TVC program, we are determined to meet the National Government’s directive to ensure that we reach many,” he added.
Gichugu MP Githinji Gichimu stated that the main goal of this initiative is to ensure that people who have been working for many years and possess significant skills in their respective trades can receive formal recognition through nationally recognized certificates.
He noted that getting valid certification will enhance their bargaining power, increase their income, open up wider job opportunities, and support their professional advancement since their skills will be recognized both nationally and internationally.
“For a long time, the challenge has been that skilled workers often cannot access jobs in government projects or large companies because they lack the necessary certificates. Institutions like the National Construction Authority require workers to have verified qualifications.
Through RPL, we will ensure that experienced workers are assessed, certified, and officially recognized, enabling them to work freely and legally,” the MP said.
He added that in the current financial year, the NG-CDF has supported 100 individuals in the first phase of the program, with plans to double the number next year due to the growing interest among skilled workers seeking certification through Gichugu TVC.
“Through the NG-CDF Bursary Fund, we have already supported 100 people in the first phase of this program. Given the high interest, next year we plan to propose in the bursary budget that additional funds be allocated to expand the RPL program, potentially supporting 200 people or more.
We want every skilled person: carpenters, masons, electricians, painters, and other tradespeople to have the opportunity to be formally recognized and enter the job market freely.” Gichimu added.
Abel Munene, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude, saying the sponsorship was a big boost. He said after working for three years without a certificate, the opportunity will finally allow him to obtain the vital document within a short period.
A resident Loise Muriuki shared that despite her experience in catering and baking for weddings and other events, lack of certification had limited her opportunities. “Even with years of experience, we were not allowed to work in formal institutions. I am grateful to the NG-CDF for giving us the chance to get certified and be officially recognised,” she said.
Samuel Muriithi, a mason, also emphasized the importance of certification in today’s job market adding: “Nowadays, whenever you apply for a job, the first question they ask is whether you have a certificate before even considering your experience. The RPL will be our proof of competence going forward,” he noted.
By Mutai Kipng’etich
