Kiambu: The State Department of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has launched the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program to recognize prior learning benefiting skilled individuals at Kiambu National Polytechnic.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program was officially launched by Dr. Joseph Kanyi, a director at the State Department for TVET, on behalf of Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, the principal secretary for the State Department for TVET. The event was attended by the Principal of Kiambu National Polytechnic, Sammy Waititu; the Kenya Association of Technical Training Institutions (KATTI) chairperson; industry representatives; RPL master trainers; and TVET trainers.
Dr. Joseph Kanyi stated, "Our goal is to maximize the effectiveness and impact of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in supporting the Government's initiative to formalize the informal sector comprising over 15 million workers with unrecognized skills." He added that achieving these goals requires building a robust ecosystem of well-trained practitioners who can assess, advise, and support RPL candidates.
The RPL program is designed to assess and certify skills and knowledge acquired outside the formal education system, such as through work experience, self-teaching, or informal training. The program also aims to provide skilled individuals with formal qualifications by enhancing their chances of employment, promotions, and further education.
Sammy Waititu, Chief Principal of Kiambu National Polytechnic, expressed, "We are honored to have hosted this important event and extend our sincere gratitude to the State Department for making it possible. We are confident that the trainees will apply the skills and knowledge gained from the RPL program effectively in the field."
Tom Olango, the director of TVET, mentioned that the RPL program will be implemented across selected institutions in Kiambu, including Thika TTI, Gatundu TBC, and Limuru TBC, with Kiambu National Polytechnic serving as the center. The workshop training will take place until Friday this week.
Nason Ndemwa, a trainee from Thika TTI, shared his reasons for joining the RPL training, saying, "I joined the RPL training to enhance my professional credibility in assessing and recognizing learners' prior skills. My expectations are to fully understand the concept and purpose of RPL and earn certification."
The RPL training launch at Kiambu National Polytechnic marks a key step in recognizing informal skills and empowering workers. Supported by the State Department for TVET and partners, the initiative aims to certify competencies, promote inclusion, and strengthen Kenya's workforce through a nationwide rollout of Recognition of Prior Learning.