The system shift of training from theory to Competence Based Educational Training (CBET) is enabling Technical Vocational Education and Training institutions to produce skills needed for the international jobs.
The Principal of Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Nandi County Abdi Tiony said Kenya was forced to align itself with CBET so that their nationals seeking jobs abroad can fit the job market.
He said the system of education and training in Europe, America, Middle East and Asian countries have shifted to CBET which emphasizes competences in various skilled areas.
“Educational systems in many foreign countries have moved to CBET, theoretical studies have no place with much emphasis on competencies in various areas,” he said.
According to him, students who have the ability to perform certain skill works are described as competent as opposed to those who haven’t mastered any skill and are referred to as not competent.
He appealed to the government to continue supporting TVET institutions so that they continue producing students with skills relevant to local and international job markets.
Tiony was speaking during Kazi Majuu recruitment drive at Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Mosop, Nandi County.
Thousands of Nandi youths turned up to try their luck in various skilled areas.
The State Department of Technical Vocational Education and Training engaged four recruitment agencies to look for skills needed in Saudi Arabia and Qatar where they were destined to work.
“They are not asking for your diploma or certificate; they are only asking one question; can you able to do it? Are you skilled? And if you can demonstrate this skills, they take you in,” Tiony said while referring to what the recruitment agencies were asking during the much practical dominated interviews.
The Principal encouraged the youths to take up courses seriously in TVET institutions since they have adopted CBET which aligns itself to the international job market.
Recruitment agencies were keen to recruit plumbers, masons, carpenters and even care givers who are destined to work in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
By Geoffrey Satia
