Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions in Kenya have been called upon to strive towards setting up income-generating projects that can lead to sustainable financial models. They were cautioned against the over-reliance on the stretched government resources. The plea was made while making the call during the dissemination of the TVET institution quality audit report for the 2022/23 year in Western Kenya at Alupe University.
Government Funding and Current Challenges
Education Sector Budget Allocation
According to the Director-General of TVET Authority Dr. Kipkirui Langat, out of Kenya’s national budget, 30% of it is used for education. Out of that, some is set aside for TVETs, more so in infrastructure development, student capitation, and scholarship, hence explaining the increase in the level of enrolment within TVETs.
Sustainability Concerns
He called for TVETs to diversify their source of funds. “The government cannot continue to provide support for growth within the sector forever,” he added, reverting to the development of alternative revenue streams. Presently, TVETA is engaging with development partners and industries on how TVET institutions can generate money by producing goods and services for the public.
Positive Outcomes and Recommendations
Increased Enrolment
In some institutions, removal of school uniforms has seen enrolment increase significantly, especially by adult learners. That puts in the trend that sometimes across the board, changing policies could be all it takes to make vocational education accessible and participatory.
Quality Standards and Compliance
The Board Chairperson of TVETA, Prof. Florence Indede, assured the commitment of the Authority in ensuring that all institutions meet set standards. According to an inspection report from 400 TVET institutions in 29 counties, most institutions comply; even so, some still lack training equipment necessary for offering relevant courses. Thereafter, Prof. Indede warned that such non-complying institutions faced the danger of a possible closure.
Local Government Support
Vihiga County Executive for Education Dr Ruth Agesa Lauded TVET institutions by terming them as key to positive placement in the employment of the youth in the area. While there are concerns such as funding, which had inadequacy in equipment and seed capital needed by every graduate, many initiatives the government was undertaking to train instructors and fund bursaries were commendable. Parents were called upon by Dr. Agesa to ensure students stayed in school and were well fed with good nutrition that would help in developing their brains.
Busia County Executive for Education and Industrial Skills Development Beatrice Nakholi called for the establishment of a regional TVETA office in Busia County to make TVET services more accessible. She assured of the County Government’s commitment to ensuring improved standards of TVET and working on the recommendations from the audit report.