The government is at an advanced stage of recruiting at least 3,000 trainers for Technical, Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions across the country.
According to the PS for Vocational and Technical Training Dr Margaret Mwakima, the move addresses the shortage of trainers that TVET institutions face today.
Speaking during the 17th The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) graduation ceremony, Dr Mwakima said they have already been given a go-ahead to recruit more trainers.
She further noted that the Ministry of Education was aware that a majority of funds given to TVET institutions as capitation ends up in a recurrent budget due to many trainers contracted by councils and boards.
“We want to bridge the gap. We already have the approval to recruit 3,000 trainers to bridge the gap now at 6,500 trainers,” the PS said.
“With these 3,000, if we’re able to recruit, we believe many of the TVET institutions will utilize capitation we have been disbursing to them for development, equipment and ensure we have skills among trainers,” she added.
The TVET PS further revealed that they are currently in discussion with the Treasury to get the budget so that can they can commence recruitment.
Income-generating activities
Aside from employing more trainers, Dr Mwakima also affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting TVET institutions financially.
“I want to reassure you that the government will continue to fund the TVET sub-sector, continue to expand infrastructure and continue equipping institutions with relevant state-of-the-art equipment to be within industry trends nationally regionally and internationally,” she said.
However, the PS challenged TVET institutions to look at ways that will help them be financially sustainable.
She noted that the institutions have resources and equipment if utilized can help generate income for their operations.
“All our TVET institutions should engage more in income-generating activities. With the kind of equipment provided and space you have, you should be able to be financially sustainable,” the PS noted.
During the 17th TENP graduation, 2,708 graduands were awarded with different certificates and diplomas.
