The government has encouraged recent Form Four leavers to consider enrolling in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across Kenya to gain practical skills ahead of university placements.
Principal Secretary for TVET, Esther Muoria, urged students who completed the KCSE exams to explore short, hands-on courses that can be undertaken before the September university intake. Speaking on Friday during the graduation ceremony at Rift Valley Training and Vocational Institute, Muoria highlighted that nearly 250,000 students awaiting university placements can acquire practical expertise within the next seven to eight months.
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“The 700,000 young people, as well as the 250,000 students awaiting university placement, can come first so that we can craft them and equip them with expertise within the nine months they still have at home,” Muoria said. She added that the nine months are sufficient for TVET institutions to impart a range of competencies that students can rely on throughout their lives. “We are inviting all of them, as we have the requisite space to accommodate everyone,” she added.
Muoria also explained that credits earned at TVET institutions can be transferred to universities, allowing students to continue their education at a relevant point based on the competencies and courses they have completed. She noted that TVET schools are ready to admit students who did not meet minimum university entry requirements, offering alternative pathways to gain technical mastery.
The PS further confirmed that the government recently released TVET scholarship funds, and a similar disbursement for HELB loans is expected within the next two weeks, ensuring financial support for prospective students.
Students interested in joining TVET institutions are advised to apply through the TVET portal or directly to individual institutions. They can choose courses based on career interests, including short-term certificates, diplomas, and artisan programmes. Qualifications range from certificates to higher diplomas, with some institutions offering apprenticeship programmes that combine classroom learning with practical industry experience.
While enrolment at TVETs is open throughout the year, students are encouraged to apply early to secure placement for courses starting before the September university intake.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has urged students seeking university and college placements to attend the 1st National Career Conference and Exhibition 2026. The three-day forum will provide guidance on higher education and career pathways, bringing students face-to-face with universities, colleges, and industry stakeholders in a centralised setting.
