Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Kenya have been urged to register their commercial products with standardization authorities, particularly the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KeBS). Dr Esther Thaara Muoria, the Principal Secretary (PS) for TVET, emphasized the importance of compliance with standardization and classification rules to avoid legal complications related to sub-standard products. The call to register products is aimed at ensuring quality and aligning with local, regional, and international standards. This article provides details on the PS’s directive and the importance of adherence to quality standards in the TVET sector.
Registering Products with KeBS
- TVET institutions have been specifically asked to register their commercial products with KeBS.
- The registration process ensures that products meet established standards, preventing legal issues related to sub-standard goods.
- Institutions are encouraged to familiarize themselves with required local, regional, and international standards before releasing products into the market.
Legal Implications of Non-Compliance
- Failure to seek approvals and adhere to standardization rules may lead to legal action for institutions producing sub-standard products.
- The PS highlighted the need for TVET principals to understand standardization and classification rules to avoid litigations in the future.
Visit to Muraga Technical Training Institute
- The PS, Dr Esther Muoria, conveyed this message during a tour of Muraga Technical Training Institute in Tharaka Nithi County.
- She interacted with top graduands and emphasized the importance of entrepreneurial innovations and adherence to quality standards.
- The institute’s principal assured the PS that the process of acquiring standardization approvals had commenced.
Embracing Competency-Based Curriculum Education and Training (CBET)
- The PS urged the TVET sector to embrace the newly introduced Competency-Based Curriculum Education and Training (CBET).
- CBET aims to produce fully skilled graduates ready for the job market, addressing identified gaps in the labor market.
- The implementation of CBET focuses on equipping TVET trainees with hands-on industry skills through training with, in, and for the industry.
Boosting Profitable Use of Income Generating Units (IGU)
- The PS highlighted that uninterrupted access to training facilities in TVET institutions would boost the profitable use of various Income Generating Units (IGU).
- Referring to the new program where TVET doors are open throughout the year, the PS acknowledged the successful initiatives at Muraga TTI.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring the quality of products from TVET institutions is crucial for their credibility and the success of their graduates in the job market. The call to register products with KeBS and adhere to standardization rules reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards in the TVET sector. Embracing CBET and optimizing Income Generating Units contribute to the overall enhancement of technical and vocational education and training in Kenya.