Mombasa: The government is preparing to implement a textile and apparel skills enhancement programme in 15 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions nationwide. This initiative aims to address youth unemployment by equipping them with specialized skills.
According to Kenya News Agency, Principal Secretary of the State Department for TVET, Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, highlighted that the programme focuses on training youths in specific skill areas with essential competencies. The training is structured into micro-credentials, allowing trainees to gain comprehensive skills in a short period and transition quickly into employment or entrepreneurship.
During a consultative forum with principals from the 15 selected TVET institutions, Dr. Muoria announced that the textile and apparel skills enhancement programme would initially be piloted in these institutions. She emphasized that despite the numerous job opportunities in the industry, a significant skills gap persists. To bridge this gap, the department is collaborating with Sainath Education Institute to train youths in fashion and design, enabling them to fill available positions.
The programme's implementation is scheduled to commence at the end of March in Nairobi and Mombasa, with plans to expand to other regions within six to eight months.