Kindiki: How government is promoting jobs

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki addressing the press at his Harambee House Annex office in Nairobi on November 7, 2024. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said that thousands of Kenyans have been certified under the government's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative, creating new employment opportunities.

Speaking at his official residence in Karen, Kindiki noted that the program is part of broader efforts to combat unemployment.

"We are rolling out the Recognition of Prior Learning certification. So far, 2,900 individuals have been certified through TVETs, and another 4,000 through the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA)," he said.

The RPL policy recognises and certifies skills and knowledge gained outside formal education systems. It was designed to benefit self-taught workers and refugees by offering them access to better job opportunities.

The certification process involves self-assessment, documentation of skills, and evaluation by an accredited assessor before final approval.

The Education Ministry oversees the program, with NITA leading industry-related certifications and TVET institutions handling other sectors.

To further address unemployment, Kindiki said the government is finalising frameworks to create decent jobs both locally and abroad.

The plans include tighter regulations for private employment agencies to align with labor market demands.

He added that the government has already employed thousands in education and the blue economy, with more job opportunities expected in the coming years.