Over 900 persons graduate under Recognition of Prior Learning policy

Over 900 graduates have been formally recognized under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy framework, officially launched on Friday.

Having acquired the certificates, the graduates are now set to get formal jobs in the local and international market.

RPL seeks to recognize people in the Jua Kali sector who have prior skills but have not been formally recognized.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who issued the certificates to the graduates at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), Nairobi, said the launch of the RPL opens the gate for consideration of knowledge, skills, and expertise in employment.

"Henceforth, our skilled artisans will no longer use folders with pictures of their handiwork to prove knowledge and skills. We are ensuring end-to-end linkages in connecting graduates with employment opportunities," Gachagua said.

He emphasized that the policy will play a critical role in tapping the massive knowledge, skills, and competencies at the bottom of the Kenyan economy.

"The Kenya National Qualifications Authority has demonstrated that expertise is not gained only from formal learning institutions. It complements our Competency-Based Curriculum system," he said.

Gachagua noted that job opportunities for skilled artisans are plentiful in the Affordable Housing Programme, new markets, stadium construction, shipping, and maritime, among other areas of transformation.

Additionally, ministries have also been directed to implement a continuous system for information sharing with the State Department for TVET, which is responsible for RPL for quick turnaround from accreditation to employment. The DP also implored the employers to align job description requirements to accommodate the experts.

A group photo for the stakeholders during the official launch of the Recognition Prior Learning Policy Framework (RPL) and graduation ceremony of the first cohort held at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) on March 22, 2024. (Photo: Justine Ondieki).

Other leaders present at the event include Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, Education PS Belio Kipsang, KNQA Director-General Alice Kande, KNQA Council Chairperson Stanley Kiptis, TVET PS Esther Muoria, Housing and Urban Development PS Charles Hinga, Labor and Skills PS Shadrack Mwadime, and other leaders.

KNQA Director-General Alice Kande said RPL looks at ability and not physical attributes or the level of intelligence displayed on paper.

She added that the policy has already proven to be a straightforward process of assessing and qualifying skills and knowledge, regardless of where, how, and when the skills were learned.

"A demonstration of capabilities in undertaking specific tasks is evidence enough for accrediting. This is an outcome-based kind of approach, and this is definitely where the hiring world is headed. Skills, attitude, and willingness to learn more are the key qualifications for employment at this time," Kande said.

Abdi Kuno Garane, a graduate from Garissa County, was assessed by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) at North Eastern National Polytechnic. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

KNQA Chairperson Stanley Kiptis reiterated that the policy makes unknown skills visible, and is the bridge between informality and formality.

"The Kenyan economy, which is predominantly informal, is driven by individuals with skills but lacks corresponding qualifications. These skills are not known or documented. They are ‘invisible’. In this regard, RPL is coming on board to make these ‘invisible skills visible’, provide an optional pathway to attainment of qualifications, and provide a redress mechanism for people with skills but lack qualifications," Kiptis said.

Abdi Kuno Garane, a graduate from Garissa County, was assessed by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) at North Eastern National Polytechnic and has finally been awarded a certificate in Motor Vehicle Mechanic.

Abdi, aged 66, is one of the oldest graduates who were awarded their certificates after being recognized by the RPL.

He urged both young and old people to seek recognition through RPL to acquire formal jobs in the market faster.