Mombasa: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Mombasa have reported success in the implementation of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), with institutions citing stronger industry linkages and improved employability among trainees. Likoni Technical and Vocational College (TVC) and Kenya Coast National Polytechnic have recorded improved employment rates since adopting the CBET curriculum, which emphasizes practical skills over theoretical learning.
According to Kenya News Agency, Samira Abdalla, the Principal of Likoni TVC, stated that the institution, a center of excellence in refrigeration and air conditioning, has experienced steady growth in learner numbers, from about 100 students to over 1,000 within three years. The college has expanded its programs from two to seven, now including electrical installation, culinary arts, plumbing, fashion and design, and painting, in response to market demand from the hospitality industry and the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone.
The institution's proximity to the Indian Ocean and the shipping corridor has bolstered demand for refrigeration and cooling skills in the marine, hospitality, and industrial sectors. Abdalla noted that the transition to CBET has enhanced training quality through hands-on learning and structured assessment, reducing theory-based teaching and increasing practical sessions.
Abdalla highlighted that learners leave with job-ready skills, often securing supervisory roles due to their exposure to different machines and workplace standards. She noted a particularly high employment rate in painting and electrical programs, with many students being absorbed by industries like Kenya Power.
The institution has partnered with over 25 industries for dual training, providing students practical experience while studying. Abdalla also mentioned that short courses have trained over 97 displaced residents from Dongo Kundu, who have since started businesses or secured employment.
Jane Kariuki, Deputy Principal Academics of Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, emphasized that the industry now values receiving well-skilled individuals who do not require retraining. Kelvin Oloko, a trainer at the polytechnic, mentioned collaborations with hotels in Mombasa for dual training programs, which have ensured that students are market-ready.
Oloko cited partnerships with English Point Marina, Travellers Beach Hotel, Voyager Beach Resort, and Sapphire Hotel, noting that some students have been absorbed by the same industries where they trained. Martin Mulwa, Head of the Department of Maritime Studies, stated that CBET addresses gaps in the previous curriculum by aligning training with industry needs and reducing course duration, making trainees eager to advance their skills.