TVET Authority (TVETA) Director-General Dr. Kipkirui Langat has encouraged students to take up the opportunities that are available in TVET institutions to increase their chances of being competitive in the job market.
The DG noted that for all the students who sit for their KCSE every year, only about 20%-30% are able to transition to universities.
“There are opportunities in the technology sector that not only guarantee employment but also provide opportunities to proceed to university for further studies if that is what you so desire,” he said
Speaking during a career fair organized by the Standard Media Group in partnership with various institutions of higher learning at KICC Nairobi, the TVETA DG said that the students are inspired by what is available in the job market. Therefore, it is important to link what is trained and what is needed in the labor market.
“The skills gap comes as a result of lack of consultations between training providers and the industry. Therefore, we must build relationships between the two and advise institutions to specialize in specific areas of study,” Dr. Kipkirui Langat added.
He also said that each institution should have industrial advisors who will help in developing strategies for the institutions in a bid to bridge the gap.
The event, which was themed “booked for life” was graced by Director General Dr. Kipkirui Langat who was the guest of honor.
Others on the panel included Prof. Njenga Munene the Vice-Chancellor Zetech University, the HR manager Standard Group Ms. Joy Kagure, Director of studies at the Kenya Utalii College Mr. Nickson Mwangi and Mr. Douglas Owino, an author.
The event that has attracted a number of higher learning institutions aims at reaching out to high school leavers who will be transitioning to these institutions and focus on the challenges they face when selecting courses to study.
