Historical Reconstruction of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Kenya (1965–2025): From Village Polytechnics to the Kenya School of TVET

Abstract

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) remains pivotal to Kenya’s socio-economic transformation, youth employability, and industrial growth. This paper reconstructs and critically examines the historical evolution of Kenya’s TVET system from 1965 to 2025, tracing its progression from community-driven village polytechnics to a nationally coordinated, competency-based framework under the Kenya School of TVET (KSTVET). Grounded in Human Capital Theory and the Skills Ecosystem Approach, the study employs a historical–analytical methodology integrating Orodho’s (1984) seminal analysis of the Maseno Youth Polytechnic with subsequent policy reviews, national development plans, and institutional archives. The inquiry delineates four interconnected phases of transformation: the foundational era (1965–1979), institutional expansion (1980–1999), reform and quality assurance (2000–2012), and modernization through competency-based and digital innovations (2013–2025). Findings reveal that despite significant gains in access, inclusivity, and quality enhancement, persistent challenges remain in governance efficiency, sustainable financing, trainer professionalization, and responsiveness to emerging labour market demands. The study underscores that Kenya’s TVET sector can achieve its full transformative potential only through an integrated policy framework that consolidates governance, diversifies funding, strengthens industry partnerships, and embeds green and digital competencies. Aligning TVET reforms with Kenya’s Vision 2030, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be critical for positioning TVET as a driver of equitable, innovation-led, and sustainable industrial growth in the 21st century.

Keywords: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET); Historical Development; Competency-Based Education; Governance and Industry Linkages; Sustainable Skills Ecosystems; Policy Reform

DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/15-9-02

Publication date: October 30th 2025