Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are strengthening collaboration with industry players to ensure graduates acquire relevant skills that meet the demands of the labour market.
Director of TVET Tom Otieno said the government was committed to promoting industry-driven training to equip learners with practical skills that enhance their employability and facilitate their absorption into the job market.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday at the Eldoret National Polytechnic during the 15th Annual International Research Conference, Hackathon, Innovation Challenge and Expo 2026, Otieno said the approach was anchored on training with the industry, from the industry and for the industry.
“As the TVET family, what we are doing at the moment is ensuring that we are training with the industry, from the industry and for the industry,” he said.
Otieno, who represented the Principal Secretary for TVET, Dr Esther Muoria, noted that the growing preference for technical training among young people was a positive indication of changing attitudes towards vocational education.
He revealed that approximately 26,000 students who qualified for university admission last year opted to join TVET institutions, demonstrating increased recognition of technical and vocational training as a viable pathway to career development.
“That is a powerful statement on how young people nowadays perceive TVET,” he said.
Otieno also commended the Eldoret National Polytechnic for sustaining the annual conference for 15 consecutive years, noting that maintaining such initiatives over an extended period required commitment and consistency.
Meanwhile, Eldoret National Polytechnic Chief Principal Dr Charles Koech said this year’s conference had incorporated three major components: a hackathon, an innovation challenge and an exhibition showcasing best practices in agricultural extension services.
Koech said the institution had dedicated Wednesday to engaging farmers through extension activities, while Thursday’s programme would feature the unveiling of winners of the innovation competition organised by the institution.
“We want to welcome all researchers, exhibitors and innovators to this 15th Annual International Research Conference,” he said.
The conference brings together researchers, innovators, industry stakeholders and other participants to showcase research findings, exchange ideas and promote innovation and skills development.
By Fredrick Maritim and Ekuwam Sylvester
