The Principal of Muraga Technical Training Institute, Purity Murithi, has raised concerns over declining student enrollment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, citing delayed government funding and disruptions in examination timelines.
Speaking in Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County, Mrs. Murithi said a combination of financial and administrative challenges has slowed intake at many institutions despite growing demand for technical skills.
Purity Murithi |The Principal of Muraga Technical Training Institute
Delayed KCSE Results Disrupted January Intake
Mrs Murithi noted that the late release of the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education results significantly affected admissions.
Traditionally, KCSE results are released in December, allowing students to transition into the January college intake. However, the 2025 results were released in January, disrupting enrollment schedules.
“We mostly target students who complete their exams in November for our January intake, but the delay interfered with our enrollment plans,” she explained.
HELB Delays Hitting Students Hard
The principal also pointed to delays in government capitation, grants and funding from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), saying many institutions depend heavily on student financing support.
“Without this funding, students are unable to pay fees. Many who applied last financial year have not received any funds, forcing some to drop out due to inability to meet tuition and examination costs,” she said.
According to her, funding delays have directly impacted retention and access to training.
Two Million Target Still Far Off
Mrs. Murithi observed that the government’s target of enrolling two million learners in TVET institutions by 2025 has not been achieved.
She said current enrollment stands at approximately 700,000 learners, far below the original target.
“If this trend continues, industries will feel the impact. Most skilled workers entering the job market, including those working abroad under the Kazi Majuu programme, come from TVET institutions,” she cautioned.
Progress Despite Challenges
Despite the setbacks, she acknowledged government efforts to promote technical training through:
- Affordable training initiatives
- Modularized curricula
- Infrastructure expansion
- Skills-focused reforms
She said these programmes have helped attract young people who had previously lost hope.
“We have managed to bring many young people out of the villages. With sustained support, we can continue making progress,” she said.
New Student Village at Muraga TTI
Mrs. Murithi also praised the Kenya Kwanza administration for investing in infrastructure at the institution, including a modern student village with the capacity to accommodate 580 trainees.
However, she stressed that infrastructure must be matched with student financing support to avoid underutilized facilities.
Calls for Youth to Enrol
She urged young people across the country to consider joining TVET institutions, especially Muraga TTI, to gain practical skills and market-ready certifications.
She also encouraged skilled artisans without formal qualifications—such as welders, masons and electricians—to utilize the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, which offers certification at a cost of Sh3,500.
Short Courses for Fast Income
The institution is also offering short courses in:
- Baking
- Cosmetology
- Nail care
- Computer skills
These programmes target school leavers and professionals seeking extra income opportunities.
“We have never had enough of cakes. Anyone can learn baking within two weeks and start earning. These short courses have the potential to transform lives,” she said.
Funding Key to Future Growth
Her remarks highlight a broader challenge facing the TVET sector: while infrastructure and policy reforms continue, timely student financing remains essential to unlocking enrollment growth and producing the skilled workforce Kenya needs.