Kenya pushes dual TVET training to bridge skills gap and jobs

Nairobi, Kenya – In an effort to bridge the skills gap and better prepare young people for the job market, Kenya is intensifying its focus on technical and vocational education and training (TVET), with an emphasis on dual training models that integrate classroom learning with workplace experience. The key themes emerged from the International TVET Conference 2026, a three-day event that convened government officials, employers, training institutions, development partners, researchers, and young people to discuss industry-driven education reforms.

Dual Training, a method that combines theoretical education with structured on-the-job learning, has gained traction in Kenya. This model has been adapted to allow a significant portion of training to occur within companies, fostering practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Over 2,500 industry partners are currently involved in this initiative, which has already benefited thousands of young people.

Delegates emphasized that stronger employer involvement is crucial for ensuring that graduates possess the specific skills required by the workplace, including adherence to professional standards and proficiency in emerging technologies. The challenge moving forward is to expand this successful model across more institutions, companies, and young individuals.

The conference also called for a greater role for employers in defining the skills demanded by the economy, rather than relying solely on the recruitment of post-training graduates. Partnerships with Germany, Finland, South Korea, as well as support from the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and other development partners, were highlighted as pivotal in strengthening Kenya’s TVET system.

Experts stressed that while there is no one-size-fits-all approach to workforce preparation, there is a clear need for robust industry links, quality assurance, trainer development, innovation, and workplace experience. Key considerations for the future include transitioning from policy discussions to tangible implementation, with a focus on sustained partnerships, bolstered training institutions, increased industry participation, and more opportunities for young people to acquire marketable skills and secure employment.

The success of these initiatives will be measured by their real-world impact, with delegates advocating for sustained commitments from all stakeholders—government, industry, training institutions, and development partners—to translate conference outcomes into actionable strategies.