KCSE candidates urged to take up TVET courses

Students on a practical lesson on how to properly cut cooper wire during refresher training course on refrigeration & air conditioning for women technicians in Kenya. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

Candidates who sat the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams in 2023 have been urged to consider enrolling in Technical Vocation Education Training (TVET) institutions.

Dr Alice Kande, the acting Director General of the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) noted that the initiative is part of the government's commitment to promoting lifelong learning.

"The Kenya National Qualification Framework provides a coherent framework for qualification from basic education up to the doctorate level. The focus is to promote lifelong learning and a seamless and diverse education and training system," said Dr Kande.

Kande said that even candidates with an 'E' grade have the opportunity to qualify for university through the TVET pathway, without meeting the traditional minimum university entry grade of C+.

The Kenya National Qualification Framework (KNQF) provides a comprehensive structure for qualifications, ensuring a seamless progression from basic education to the doctoral level.

In the released KCSE results, the number of candidates who attained the minimum university entry qualification (Grade C+ and above) was 201,133 (22.27%).

The number of candidates who attained a pass grade (grade D+ and above) was 526,222 (58.27%) and 48,174 scored mean grade of E.

Dr Kande said that the KNQF framework provides transparency and structure for organizing and recognizing qualifications at various levels, facilitating seamless learner progression nationally and internationally.

"Competence-Based Education and Training, underpinned by the Kenya National Qualifications Framework, signifies important stride towards creating a more relevant, inclusive, and dynamic education system. By embracing these initiatives, we contribute not only to shaping the future of our learners but also to the overall development and prosperity of our nation," she said.

While releasing the results, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu directed the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Services (KUCCPS) to embark on the placement of students in TVET institutions ahead of the March 2024 admissions.

"The President instructed us to ensure that there will be no Kenyan child who will be left behind in the enrolment to school, retention, transition, and progression until completion of the Basic Education level in line with our Constitution," said Machogu.

The move aims to diversify educational opportunities and align with the evolving needs of the job market.