In a powerful address delivered at the inaugural graduation ceremony of Kakrao Technical and Vocational College (TVC) in Suna East, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Principal Secretary, Dr Esther Muoria, issued a clarion call to graduates: Leverage your skills to seize opportunities both at home and abroad.
PS Esther Muoria during the graduation ceremony- Photo by Makokha Khaoya
The ceremony, which saw 422 students graduate in various technical fields, underscored the growing value of TVET qualifications in a competitive global economy. Representing the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Ogamba, PS Muoria emphasised that the skills acquired by TVET graduates are not just local commodities, but international passports.
“Technical skills open doors to global opportunities that can uplift your lives,” she stated, addressing the graduands. She revealed that the Kenyan government has actively forged bilateral agreements, particularly with nations in the Middle East, to create dedicated platforms for the employment and career advancement of TVET and Technical Training Institute (TTI) graduates.
Domestic Opportunities in Nation-Building Projects
While championing global mobility, PS Muoria also directed graduates’ attention to the vast opportunities within Kenya’s transformative development agenda. She pointed to flagship government projects under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), such as the Affordable Housing programme and market construction initiatives, which are in dire need of technical expertise.
“Nothing comes on a silver platter; you must actively pursue the opportunities the government provides,” she urged, challenging graduates to be proactive in seeking these roles.
Passion, Excellence, and Entrepreneurship
Beyond securing employment, the PS stressed the importance of passion and excellence. “If you do something you love with passion, you do it well, and that will market your skills and technical capacity,” she advised, linking genuine interest to superior skill application and career growth.
This sentiment was echoed by Kakrao TVC Principal, Mr Felix Odhiambo, who urged the 422 graduates to become ambassadors for the institution. “By showcasing your skills and technical know-how, you inspire others to join and contribute to the County’s social and economic development.”
Principal Odhiambo further encouraged a shift in mindset, from job-seeking to job creation. He emphasised that entrepreneurship is a critical pathway to strengthening the county’s and the nation’s economic base.
Kakrao TVC: A Model of Innovation and Sustainability
PS Muoria applauded Kakrao TVC’s management for moulding the institution into a beacon of excellence. She specifically highlighted its climate-smart initiatives, such as rainwater harvesting systems and income-generating projects, calling them exemplary models of sustainable and modern TVET practice.
“Kakrao TVC is demonstrating how innovation, skill development, and practical projects can positively impact both students and the wider community,” she noted.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, PS Muoria outlined the national strategy to solidify the TVET sector. The focus remains on strengthening Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), Dual Training, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as the core pillars of Kenya’s skills revolution under BETA.
The Bottom Line for TVET Graduates
The ceremony at Kakrao TVC sent a clear, multi-faceted message to TVET graduates across Kenya:
1. Your skills are globally marketable. Explore international opportunities facilitated by government agreements.
2. Contribute to national development. Engage in local mega-projects requiring your expertise.
3. Cultivate passion and excellence. They are your best brand ambassadors. Consider entrepreneurship. Be a creator of employment, not just a seeker.
5. Trust in a revamped system. The government is institutionalising CBET and related frameworks to enhance the quality and relevance of your training.
As Kenya continues on its path of economic transformation, the TVET graduate stands at the heart of this journey—equipped not just with a certificate, but with practical skills, a global perspective, and an entrepreneurial spirit ready to build a sustainable future.