In a transformative move to uplift Kenya’s informal sector, the government has rolled out a revolutionary initiative aimed at recognizing and certifying the skills of workers lacking formal academic qualifications. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, spearheaded by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVET), is set to empower skilled individuals in fields such as mechanics, welding, masonry, and electrical work.
Launched in March 2024, the RPL initiative targets an estimated 15 million Kenyans who have honed their skills outside of the formal education system but lack certification. With an ambitious goal of certifying one million people annually, TVET’s Director General Stanley Maindi highlights the immediate success of the program: over 5,000 individuals have already received their certifications, and early surveys indicate significant progress in both employment and entrepreneurial ventures.
The RPL assessment process began this week at polytechnics across Kenya, including Kisumu, Eldoret, Nyeri, and Sigalagala. Workers engaged in government projects such as the Affordable Housing initiative also undergo on-site assessments. Those who qualify for certification are evaluated based on their competencies in a process that is designed to be both inclusive and accessible.
This initiative is a collaboration between the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations and county governments, ensuring that eligible candidates are properly identified. Maindi emphasized that the RPL certificates carry the same weight as formal academic qualifications, allowing recipients to access better job prospects, bid for tenders, and pursue further education.
Paul Watsiera, Deputy Coordinator for RPL at Kisumu National Polytechnic, spoke to the profound impact of the program: “This initiative levels the playing field for skilled individuals who have, for too long, been overlooked simply because they lack paper credentials.”
As the backbone of Kenya’s economy, the informal sector now has an official channel for recognition and advancement, marking a critical step toward a more inclusive and equitable future for the country.
