Financing Mechanisms of Public TVET Institutions and Their Implications for Quality Education and Training in Kenya

Abstract

Sustainable financing is essential for the effective functioning of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and the provision of quality education and training. In Kenya, expanding enrolments, technological advancements, and increasing demand for industry-relevant skills have heightened the need for diversified and sustainable financing mechanisms. This study examined the financing mechanisms of public TVET institutions and their implications for the quality of education and training in Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to: (i) identify the principal sources of financing for public TVET institutions; (ii) assess the status of educational and training resources supported through these financing mechanisms; and (iii) establish financing-related challenges and their implications for training quality. The study was anchored on Human Capital Theory and Resource Dependency Theory. A descriptive survey design, complemented by documentary and library-based analysis, was employed. From a target population of 300 public TVET institutions, a sample of 190 respondents comprising principals, Board of Management members, and Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (QUASOs) was selected using the Yamane formula with a 5% margin of error and a 10% adjustment for non-response. Data were collected through questionnaires and key informant interviews, and analyzed using SPSS and thematic techniques. Findings revealed that the major financing sources for public TVET institutions included government capitation and budgetary allocations, student fees, Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) support, National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) allocations, income-generating activities, donor funding, and public-private partnerships. Financing mainly supported classrooms, workshops, laboratories, training equipment, and digital infrastructure. However, inadequate funding, delayed disbursements, overreliance on government support, and disparities in resource allocation constrained the provision of quality training. The study recommends a blended financing model integrating government funding, student financial aid, industry partnerships, donor support, and institutional income-generating initiatives to enhance financial sustainability, improve training quality, promote equity and access, and strengthen graduate employability.

Keywords: Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), financing mechanisms, quality education and training, Human Capital

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/17-7-01

Publication date: July 30^th 2026