Strengthening Skills Development for Industry Relevance and Sustainable Employment

Publication Details

Publication Date

10/10/2026

Volume / Issue

Vol 1, Issue 5 (2026)

Article No.

064

Journal

British Journal of Contemporary Research

DOI

https://doi.org/10.67693/BJCR-86DULFCG

Received

20 Sep 2026

Views

329

Downloads

32

Abstract

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) plays a critical role in industrial development and economic transformation in Kenya. Recent reforms, including Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), modularized curricula, dual training systems, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and industry-linked internship programs, have strengthened practical skills acquisition and workplace readiness among trainees. Despite these initiatives, graduate unemployment and underemployment remain significant challenges, raising concerns about the effectiveness of TVET–industry partnerships in promoting sustainable employment. This study examined factors influencing employable skills development and industry relevance within Kenya's TVET sector. The study adopted a qualitative desk review and policy analysis design. Data were obtained from Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) reports, government policy documents, labour market reports, industry publications, peer-reviewed journal articles, and international TVET literature. The collected information was analyzed thematically to identify key trends, challenges, opportunities, and policy gaps affecting skills development and graduate employability. The review revealed that although TVET reforms have enhanced technical competence and practical skills acquisition, significant challenges persist. Key issues identified include limited integration of emerging technologies, inadequate industry participation in curriculum development and training delivery, skills mismatches between graduates and labour market requirements, limited internship and apprenticeship opportunities, and weak international recognition of local qualifications. The findings further indicate that labour market absorption has not expanded at the same pace as the increasing number of TVET graduates, contributing to persistent unemployment and underemployment. The study concludes that strengthening TVET–industry partnerships requires a more integrated approach involving government, training institutions, employers, and development partners. Greater investment in technology integration, industry-led skills development, labour market intelligence, and internationally recognized certification frameworks is necessary to enhance graduate employability and workforce competitiveness. Strengthening these areas will contribute to sustainable employment and support Kenya's industrial transformation agenda.

License

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License . Free to read, share, and adapt with attribution.