Kisumu: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Esther Muoria has urged greater investment in innovation, research, and industrial linkages across Kenya's TVET institutions to prepare graduates who are not only employable but also creators of future jobs. In a speech read on her behalf by the Director of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Unit, Stanley Maindi, during the official opening of the 7th Annual International Multi-Disciplinary Conference and the 5th National Skills Competition at Kisumu National Polytechnic, Dr. Muoria described TVET institutions as the engines of national transformation.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Muoria commended Kisumu National Polytechnic for consistently hosting the conference, calling it a vital forum for generating ideas, building collaborations, and showcasing innovations. She said such platforms help realize the goals of Kenya's Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The PS emphasized the importance of this year's theme, 'The Triple Helix Integration of AI, Research and Sustainable Technologies in Reverse-Engineering TVET for Ready Graduates,' as it focuses on the fusion of education, industry, and government in producing graduates ready to thrive in the digital and green economies.
Dr. Muoria highlighted the rapid redefinition of sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, health, and transport due to innovation driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability. She stressed the necessity for TVETs to incorporate AI-driven tools and environmentally friendly technologies into their curriculum to equip trainees with competencies that meet the demands of both local and global markets.
The State Department for TVET has begun rolling out the modularized Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum, marking a significant shift in the delivery of technical skills in the country. Dr. Muoria explained that the modular system, introduced nationally in May 2025, allows learners to gradually build skills in defined segments, enhancing flexibility, accessibility, and labor market responsiveness. She detailed how entry-level modules can be completed in three to six months, while full qualifications comprising six to eight modules may take up to two years depending on trade and industry requirements.
Dr. Muoria urged TVET institutions to be at the forefront of a national innovation movement, noting the transformative potential of AI and emerging technologies. She cited examples of AI applications in smart agriculture, medical diagnostics, automated manufacturing, and clean energy, advocating for these developments to be integrated into Kenya's TVET programs. The PS underlined the necessity of integrating AI and research into training institutions to improve learning outcomes, optimize industry processes, and develop homegrown solutions for local challenges.
Promoting sustainability through the incorporation of green energy systems, circular economy models, and environmentally conscious design into TVET programs was another focus for Dr. Muoria, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 9 on Quality Education and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. She called on stakeholders, including development agencies and the private sector, to support the full innovation chain in TVETs, from ideas to prototypes to final products.
Dr. Muoria emphasized the importance of funding, mentoring, and supporting innovators to ensure their solutions reach the market and create impact. Kisumu National Polytechnic Chief Principal Catherine Kelonye praised the support from the Ministry and the growing interest from the private sector in the institution's programs. She highlighted the conference as an opportunity for students to showcase their skills and innovations, with participants from across the country, including researchers, educators, students, government officials, development partners, and industry players.
The event featured paper presentations, prototype exhibitions, panel discussions, and skills competitions across trades such as mechatronics, automotive technology, fashion design, food and beverage, and renewable energy.