TVET Courses in Kenya | Requirements and Fees

Every nation’s productivity is measured by its workforce. Kenya is not left behind in the development of human capital, hence the need for TVET courses.

Recently, TVET courses in Kenya have gained momentum among students and young people generally. Many enrol in them to seek technical skills that enable them to enter employment immediately after completing their studies.

These courses are offered in various institutions nationwide to arm individuals with relevant skills needed for employment or self-employment in a specific field. So, if you wish to learn a skill to fit into or get certified ideally, Kenyan TVET courses are all you need.

In this article, we will explain TVET, why it’s important, and everything you should know about the requirements and fees for these courses.

What does TVET stand for?

TVET is an abbreviation for Technical and Vocational Education and Training. It describes a kind of post-school education that is specially meant for acquiring technical skills and practical knowledge.

TVET differs from other university course programs and is unique because it focuses on job training. In TVET, one can develop practical, hands-on skills that are directly applicable on the job site.

In Kenya, they range from construction to automotive engineering, hospitality, beauty therapy, and many others. These courses are offered in institutions called colleges or polytechnics. They expose the student to practical work experience and thus qualify them in their field of study.

What is another name for TVET?

The other term for TVET is vocational or technical education. Each of these terms is used interchangeably to refer to education programs that equip students with practical skills in defined trades or industries. TVET encompasses technical, vocational, and professional training programs.

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Why do we need TVET?

TVET demand in Kenya is high because it bridges the gap between theoretical orientation and practical skills needed at the workplace. Most companies need personnel who can immediately work with little or no further training. TVET courses have, therefore, created a platform that equips learners with specific skills, responding to the demands of various industries.

For example, employers in agriculture-based, manufacturing, and construction industries are looking for employees with practical experience. TVET graduates are, therefore, highly valued since they have undergone the training and can now offer their services in those industries.

In addition, TVET programs will help minimize unemployment rates among youths and equip them with the potential for self-employment and even job creation.

How much is TVET fee in Kenya?

Fees for TVET courses in Kenya vary from one institution to another depending on the course you undertake. On average, TVET course fees in Kenya range from Ksh 15,000 to Ksh 56,420 every year.

Government-sponsored students pay subsidized rates, so they’re usually cheaper. Depending on the course and the institution, the fees can go as low as Ksh 15,000 to Ksh 30,000 annually for these students.

The fees charged by private TVET colleges are a little higher, sometimes up to Ksh 100,000 and above per year. Regardless of the differentiation, TVET education has remained reasonable to many Kenyans compared to traditional university programs.

Many institutions also offer scholarships or financial aid for needy students, reducing the burden of paying fees.

What are the requirements for TVET colleges in Kenya?

The qualifications that one needs to enrol in a Kenyan TVET college are simple and generally flexible to a university. The minimum requirement to pursue a course in any TVET college in Kenya is a KCSE certificate.

Yet, some courses require special subjects. For instance, in an engineering course, students might be required to pass Mathematics and Physics.

Other TVET courses do not have very stringent entry requirements; some even allow students who scored a D, plain, or even lower in their KCSE exams, making the field open to all students.

Most institutions also require applicants to provide copies of identification documents, recent passport photos, and, where relevant, recommendation letters or evidence of prior work experience.

In short, the entry requirements are mild to accommodate students from diverse academic backgrounds to even out the playing field in gaining these vital skills and qualifications obtained through TVET education.

What is the best course to study in TVET?

The best TVET course for study in Kenya will depend on your interests and career aspirations. However, various TVET courses are on the demand register since they relate well to developing industries.

For instance, automotive engineering, information technology, hospitality management, plumbing, and electrical engineering are among the well-paying TVET courses in the job market. If you are interested in construction, building and construction technology is another strong course one may consider.

In the long run, the best TVET course for anyone lies in what best suits his skills and passions, coupled with the available job opportunities in his or her locality.

Some courses, like hairdressing and beauty therapy, offer certificates so that students can quickly enter the working environment for either employment or self-employment.

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What Type of Skills are needed for TVET?

Different courses require different abilities in TVET. However, what is usually required is practicality and a willingness to learn.

Technical ability is among the most crucial requirements since students will use their hands and tools in courses such as plumbing, automotive engineering, and carpentry.

Other skills that might help along the way in the field of TVET involve problem-solving, since one may continuously be looking for remedies for real-world problems, and teamwork and communication skills, which may come in handy while working in the field of hospitality or even customers.

Interest in how things work and enjoyment of hands-on learning are also vital abilities that will help a student succeed in TVET courses.

The majority of TVET courses do not require pre-skills since the courses offered are meant to equip the learners with such abilities. However, numeracy and literacy skills are useful for the learner, particularly in technical subjects.

How Long Is TVET?

The time taken for TVET courses in Kenya is determined by the type of course being pursued and up to what certificate level. Generally, the duration can range from a few months to three years. Here is a breakdown of the same:

1. Artisan Courses – Duration: 6 months to 1 year

These are entry-level courses intended for learners who might not have achieved admission scores. Artisan courses focus on fundamental competencies in plumbing, welding, hairdressing, and masonry.

2. Certificate Courses – Duration: 1 to 2 years

Certificate programs target students with a KCSE mean grade of D plain and above. These courses offer introductory knowledge and skills applicable in the areas of study to be pursued, such as electrical engineering, fashion design, or hospitality.

3. Diploma Courses – Duration: 2 to 3 years

The Diploma courses target students with a KCSE mean grade of C- Minus and above. Courses are more comprehensive and embrace advanced levels of study to equip students with skills for professional practices in the automotive engineering, ICT, and construction industries.

4. Higher National Diploma – Duration: 1 to 2 years

Higher national diploma targets students who have already acquired a diploma and want further specialization. The courses offer intensive training in aspects, such as project management, agricultural engineering, or business management.

5. Short Courses – A few weeks to a few months

Most of the TVET institutions offer short-term courses meant for the citizens’ acquisition of rapid skills. This is standard in areas like computer skills, beauty therapy, and customer care.

TVET Courses in Kenya and Their Fees

Therefore, TVET courses in Kenya are meant to assist participants in acquiring practical skills that enable them to enter the employment realm. These courses are offered by several institutions, including polytechnics, technical institutes, and other vocational training centers.

The fees charged in TVET colleges are not the same for every institution; they vary depending on the course chosen and whether the student receives government sponsorship or is self-sponsored.

Popular TVET Courses in Kenya

1. Automotive engineering
2. Electrical and Electronics engineering
3. Plumbing
4. Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
5. Hospitality Management
6. Information Technology (IT)
7. Building and Construction Technology
8. Fashion Design and Textile Technology
9. Agricultural Engineering
10. Welding and Fabrication

1. Automotive engineering

The course covers vehicle mechanics, repairs, and maintenance. Students will be taken through vehicle systems, diagnoses, and their repairs.
The average fee in public institutions is between Ksh 30,000 and Ksh 50,000 per year. It may be about Ksh 80,000 to Ksh 100,000 per year in private institutions.

2.   Electrical and Electronics engineering

The course deals with imparting skills in electrical installation, electronics maintenance, and repair.
The Fees range from Ksh 20,000 to Ksh 40,000 annually in Government-subsidized colleges. In private colleges, they can be up to Ksh 70,000 or even more per year.

3.   Plumbing

The students study in detail, the installation, maintenance, and repairs of plumbing installations in both domestic and industrial buildings.
The Course costs approximately Ksh 15,000 to Ksh 35,000 annually in public colleges. The private colleges charge about Ksh 60,000 every year.

4.   Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy

The course encompasses beauty treatments, hair styling, and skincare. It is very popular because of the emerging beauty industries.
The average tuition fee required ranges from Ksh 20,000 to Ksh 40,000 per year in public colleges. In private colleges, it can go as high as Ksh 70,000 annually.

5.   Hospitality Management

The students are trained in hotel management, catering, housekeeping, and customer services.
Hospitality course fees range from Ksh 25,000 to Ksh 45,000 per year, and in private colleges, they may go up to Ksh 80,000 annually.

6.   Information Technology (IT)

This course covers computer science, programming, networking, and IT support. Its target Students are those with passion and enthusiasm for the technological industry.

The average tuition fee in public institutions ranges between Ksh 25,000 and Ksh 50,000 yearly, while private colleges can charge from Ksh 70,000 to Ksh 100,000 annually.

7.   Building and Construction Technology

The course trains a student on how to manage construction, masonry, and carpentry amongst other construction things.
Public institutions charge between Ksh 20,000 and Ksh 40,000 annually, while private colleges can charge up to Ksh 60,000 or more.

8.   Fashion Design and Textile Technology

Learners grasp garment making, the selection of fabric for construction, and the design of fashion.
As mentioned earlier, this usually ranges from Ksh 15,000 to Ksh 35,000 annually in public institutions. It ranges between Ksh 50,000 and Ksh 80,000 annually in private institutions.

9.   Agricultural Engineering

This course covers agricultural machinery, irrigation systems, and farm management.
Most public colleges charge Ksh. 30,000 to 50,000 annually for agricultural engineering courses, while Private institutions charge as much as Ksh. 90,000 annually.

10.   Welding and Fabrication

Students in this course acquire knowledge in welding and fabrication of metallic structures applied in various industries.
The fee ranges from Ksh. 20,000 to 35,000 annually in most public institutions. In private institutions, it may be up to Ksh 60,000 per year.

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How to apply for TVET Courses in Kenya?

Application to TVET courses in Kenya is easy. You will first need to choose your preferred course and find out which institution offers it. TVET courses are not offered in just a few public institutions but in almost all private institutions in Kenya. 

You can research online about the programs offered by each institution or visit campuses.

Once you have identified the course and the institution, you should proceed with filling out an application form, which you can usually obtain on the website or at the admission office. 

Attach the form along with other necessary documents, such as your KCSE results, ID card, and passport photos. Some institutions may require a small application fee.

If you are a government-sponsored student, you can also apply through the KUCCPS website. After receiving the application, some courses may require an interview or entrance exam. A letter of admission is later issued for registration after acceptance.

Is TVET Free in Kenya?

TVET is not free in Kenya; however, the government has subsidized TVET education, making it fairly affordable for most students. In most countries, public TVET institutions have been subsidized by the government. Hence, the fees payable by a student are low or minimal.

As such, students in public TVET colleges pay as low as Ksh 15,000 annually, depending on the course. Besides this subsidy, HELB made loans and bursaries available to help them meet their remaining needs.

Some TVET scholarships also exist to help students who might be unable to pay the fees. Though TVET is not free, these subsidies and scholarship programs ensure that many Kenyans can access it.

What is the TVET Scholarship in Kenya?

The government, as well as other private organizations, also provides TVET scholarships to help Kenyan students afford education. The Kenyan government, through the Higher Education Loans Board, offers students financial support to enroll in any of the TVET institutions.

Students who attend technical and vocational training can take out tuition fee loans, as well as accommodation loans, among other expenses.

There are also scholarships from various organizations, such as the MasterCard Foundation, which caters to TVET students from the most economically challenged regions.

Some TVET colleges also have internal scholarships for top scholars or those challenged financially. These scholarships make access to TVET easier for many Kenyans who might not otherwise be able to pay their way.

FAQs

Conclusion

TVET courses are the backbone of Kenya’s manpower development through practical and industry-specific skills. Whether your aspirations are for a skilled mechanic, beautician, electrician, or chef, the TVET course will equip you with the right training for job success. 

Generally, the fees such colleges charge are relatively affordable, with entry requirements equally accommodating; hence, they remain among the best avenues other than university education for many Kenyan youths.

References

• education.go.ke/TVET courses in Kenya
• kstvet.ac.ke/TVET courses in Kenya
• zetech.ac.ke/TVET courses in Kenya
• seku.ac.ke/TVET courses in Kenya

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