MPs urge TVETs to intensify student recruitment amid enrolment decline

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions have been urged to intensify student recruitment campaigns as MPs raised concerns over declining enrolment linked to delayed government capitation and financial constraints facing learners.

The National Assembly's Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education (PIC-G&E) made the call on Thursday during a meeting with the management of Sigalagala National Polytechnic, Bunyala Technical and Vocational College, Mukurweini Technical and Vocational College, Ndia Technical and Vocational College and Kipipiri Technical and Vocational College while examining Auditor-General's reports for the 2018/19 to 2024/25 financial years.

Committee Chairperson and Luanda MP Dick Maungu said the Committee had recently met the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Julius Ogamba, to discuss challenges facing TVET institutions, including delayed government capitation and declining enrolment.

"We recently met the Cabinet Secretary for Education and raised concerns affecting TVET institutions, including delayed capitation and declining enrolment. While the government addresses these challenges, principals must also step up public awareness campaigns to attract more students to their institutions," said Maungu.

He said TVET institutions remain central to developing the skilled workforce required to drive Kenya's industrialisation and economic growth, noting that many students who miss out on university admission can still build successful careers through technical and vocational training.

The Committee also commended Sigalagala National Polytechnic for its rapid growth and prudent financial management, describing it as a model for public TVET institutions.

Maungu praised Chief Principal (PS) Evans Bosire for overseeing a rise in student enrolment from about 5,000 to more than 17,000 during his tenure. He also lauded the institution for implementing internally funded development projects worth more than Sh200 million, saying the achievement demonstrated prudent management of public resources.

"This is a clear demonstration that when public resources are managed prudently, institutions can expand, improve infrastructure and deliver quality training without compromising accountability," he said.

Committee members also urged principals to strengthen public awareness campaigns to boost enrolment.

Kilome MP Thaddeus Nzambia called on TVET principals to work closely with MPs to enable more needy students to benefit from National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) bursaries and scholarships, saying stronger collaboration would help ensure deserving learners are not locked out of technical and vocational training because of financial constraints.

"Many young people are missing opportunities simply because they are unaware of the courses available in our TVET institutions. Principals must take the training to the people through sustained outreach and career awareness campaigns," he said.