The 2024 KCSE results have opened up opportunities for students who scored D+ and D (plain) to pursue certificate courses in various TVET institutions. These courses, approved by the KUCCPS, provide a direct pathway to employable skills in the engineering sector.
Why Engineering?
Engineering is a marketable field with job opportunities in industries like construction, automotive, electrical and manufacturing. With the increasing demand for skilled technicians, TVET institutions and polytechnics across Kenya offer a variety of hands on training programs that ensures graduates are work ready.
Top Engineering Courses for D+ and D (Plain) Students
KUCCPS has approved over 90 certificate courses in engineering, you can specialise in areas that interest you. Some of the most sought after programs are;
For D+ (Plus) Students:
- Automotive Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering (Automotive Option)
- Motor Vehicle Mechanics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Mechanical Production Technician Level 5
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering Level 5
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Instrumentation and Control Option)
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Power Option)
- Electrical Operator Level 5 – NNP
- Electrical and Electronic Technology (Telecommunication Option)
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechatronic Technology Level 5
- Mechatronics
- Welding and Fabrication Level 5
For D (Plain) Students:
- Agricultural Engineering
- Building and Civil Engineering
- Automotive Mechatronics Level 5
- Agricultural Engineering
- Mechanical Plant Engineering Level 5
- Automotive Engineering
- Automotive Engineering Technology Level 5
- Gemology Level 5
- Automotive Technician Level 5
- Mechanical Technology Level 5
- Mechanical Production Technician Level 5
- Welding and Fabrication* Electrical Installation Level 5
- Solar PV Installation Level 5
- Plumbing Level 5
- Software Engineering Level 5
- Graphic Design Level 5
- Cyber Security Level 5
- Welding and Fabrication Technology Level 5
Where to Study
Several TVET institutions and polytechnics offer these programs. Some of the leading institutions are;
- Polytechnics: Eldoret, Kisii, Kisumu, Kitale, Nyeri, and Sigalagala.
- TVET Colleges: Weru, Webuye, Turbo, Tigania East, Shamberembere, Runyenjes, and Ugunja.
Career Prospects and Future Opportunities
Graduates from these programs have many career options including;
- Automotive Technician (garages, vehicle assembly plants)
- Civil Engineering Assistant (construction sites, surveying firms)
- Electrical Technician (power plants, electrical maintenance and repair)
- Mechanical Engineering Technician (factories, industries and manufacturing plants)
- Welding and Fabrication Expert (metalwork, construction, shipbuilding)
- Solar PV Technician (renewable energy sector, solar panel installations)
Conclusion
Scoring a D+ or D (plain) in KCSE does not mean the end of academic or career success. TVET programs provide practical skills that lead to stable and lucrative careers. Engineering related certificate courses are in high demand and with the right training, graduates can get employed or start their own businesses.
Students who wish to apply, please check with KUCCPS and respective TVET institutions for admission details and funding options.