Why 100,000 Kenyan Students Are Choosing Skills Over Degrees (And What It Means for Your School)

Why 100,000 Kenyan Students Are Choosing Skills Over Degrees

Something big is happening in Kenya's education system. While primary and secondary schools are adopting the Competency-Based Education (CBE), technical colleges are leading the way with something called Modular CBET. Over 100,000 students are already enrolled in this new system, and the numbers keep growing.

But what does this mean for regular schools? The success of Modular CBET in technical training offers valuable lessons for every school administrator, teacher, and parent navigating the new CBE system. It shows us a proven way to make education more practical and ensure students are ready for the job market.

What is Modular CBET and Why Does It Matter?

Think of Modular CBET as breaking down education into smaller, practical pieces. Instead of waiting years to complete a full course, students can earn certificates for specific skills in just a few months. This means they can start working and earning money much faster.

Principal Secretary Dr. Esther Muoria, who leads Kenya's TVET sector, explains it simply: "The world needs skilled workers, and Kenya must prepare our youth to deliver quality work anywhere." The demand for skilled workers is high, especially in Europe and the Middle East, which validates this new approach.

Three Ways Modular Learning Changes Everything

1. Students Learn Faster

Instead of waiting 2-3 years for a diploma, students can earn micro-credentials in just 3-6 months. For example, a student can get certified in digital marketing or basic catering and start earning immediately. This is especially important for families who need income quickly.

2. Skills Match What Employers Need

The new system works closely with industries to ensure students learn exactly what employers are looking for. Training is done with industry, for industry. This means graduates have practical skills that employers actually want, not just theoretical knowledge.

3. No One Gets Left Behind

The Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) framework ensures that skills learned anywhere are recognized. Whether a student learns in a formal school, through an apprenticeship, or on the job, their competencies are valued. This opens doors for everyone, regardless of their background.

What Schools Can Learn from TVET's Success

Here are three practical lessons that any school can apply:

1. Standardize Your Training Plans

Make sure your practical subjects and co-curricular activities follow clear, consistent standards. This helps students know exactly what they need to learn and makes assessment fairer. Work with industry experts to ensure your standards match real-world needs.

2. Partner with Local Businesses

Don't just have career days once a year. Build real partnerships with local businesses. Let students do short internships or work-based learning. This gives them real experience and helps them understand what employers actually need.

3. Value Skills, Not Just Grades

Parents and teachers should recognize that practical skills are just as valuable as academic achievements. A student who can fix a computer or design a website has real, marketable skills. Encourage students to pursue both academic learning and practical competencies.

Why Technology Matters

Managing this new system is complex. With over 45,000 students taking assessments in just one series, schools need digital tools to track:

• Which skills each student has mastered
• How students are progressing through different modules
• Connections with industry partners
• All the certificates and credentials earned

This is where digital platforms like EduPoa™ become essential. Our system helps schools track competencies, manage assessments, and generate the reports needed by education authorities. It transforms traditional school management into a modern, competency-based system.

The Bottom Line

Kenya is moving toward a skills-based economy. The success of Modular CBET in technical training proves this approach works. Over 100,000 students are already benefiting from learning practical, employable skills.

For schools, this means embracing competency-based learning, partnering with industries, and using technology to manage the complexity. For parents, it means recognizing that skills matter as much as grades. For students, it means more opportunities to learn, earn, and succeed.

The transformation is happening now. The question is: will your school be ready?

Want to learn more about implementing CBE in your school? Explore how EduPoa™ can help you track competencies, manage assessments, and prepare students for success in Kenya's new education system.

About EduPoa™: EduPoa™ is Kenya's leading student management system designed for Competency-Based Education. We help schools track student competencies, manage digital portfolios, analyze performance, and generate reports that meet CBE requirements. Our platform makes it easy for schools to transition from traditional to competency-based learning.