The Retirement Age for TVET Trainers in Kenya: A Look at the Proposal to Increase it to 65 Years
In Kenya, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is a crucial sector that equips individuals with practical skills for the job market.
TVET trainers play a significant role in imparting these skills, but there’s been ongoing discussion about the retirement age for these trainers.
Currently, the retirement age for TVET trainers in Kenya is 60 years. However, there is a proposal to increase it to 65 years.
Dr. Mwakima, a key figure in the TVET sector, expressed the importance of increasing the retirement age.
She emphasized that skills acquired in this field are sharpened with experience and time. Dr. Mwakima also highlighted the challenges faced by the sector, such as the shortage of tutors.
To address this issue, the government plans to recruit an additional 3,000 trainers in different institutions.
The government has been investing heavily in modernizing and expanding technical and vocational institutions across the country.
This investment is aimed at ensuring that the training offered aligns with the demands of the job market.
Dr. Mwakima noted that the government has spent over Sh 10.6 billion to increase the number of TVET institutions from 52 in 2013 to 238 in 2022, with 192 of them already operational.
The impact of these investments is evident in the enrollment numbers, which have significantly increased over the years.
The enrolment of trainees in TVETs rose from 55,945 in 2013 to 249,316 in 2022.
This increase can be attributed to the Sh 10.3 billion capitation to TVETs in the form of government grants and Sh 11.1 billion education loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) to TVET trainees.
TVETs have become critical in achieving rapid economic growth, social, and technological improvements as Kenya strives to realize Vision 2030.
The skills acquired through TVETs are essential for meeting the demands of the job market and driving innovation and development in various sectors of the economy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the proposal to increase the retirement age for TVET trainers to 65 years is a step in the right direction.
It recognizes the value of experience in this field and addresses the challenges faced by the sector, such as the shortage of trainers.
With continued government support and investment, TVETs in Kenya will play a crucial role in equipping individuals with the skills needed for the job market and driving economic growth and development.
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Mr. Weldon Kosgei, a dedicated educator with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in Kenya, brings years of experience and a deep love for education to his role at TSCNewsToday.co.ke. He provides insightful and timely updates on TSC policies, educational trends, and best practices, making his articles valuable resources for educators and administrators. Mr. Kosgei’s commitment to enhancing education shines through in his writing, connecting and inspiring the teaching community across Kenya.
