### **CS Ogamba Champions Institutional Branding in TVET Education**
**Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba** is on a mission to transform the landscape of Technical Vocational Education and Training (**TVET**) institutions in Kenya. During a recent workshop held in Mombasa on **April 23, 2025**, organized by the **Kenya Association of Technical Training Institutions (KATTI)**, Ogamba praised the momentum gained from recent reforms and highlighted the **growing enrollment numbers** as a positive indicator of change.
#### **Why Branding Matters in TVET**
The CS emphasized the urgent need for TVET principals to **combat negative perceptions** associated with vocational training. He urged leaders to utilize various communication channels to promote the **success stories** of TVET graduates, thereby showcasing the valuable skills and careers that stem from these programs.
Ogamba noted that **over 8,000 students** who took the **Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)** last year have opted for TVET courses, a testament to the changing attitudes toward vocational training. As results from the **Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS)** continue to roll out, further increases in enrollment are expected.
### **Transforming Negative Narratives**
For too long, society has linked TVET with **inferior academic performance** and poor career prospects, deterring parents from enrolling their children. **”We must change this narrative,”** Ogamba insisted. He encouraged institutions to become more **visible, attractive, and aspirational**. Effective branding strategies—including websites, brochures, and social media—are essential for elevating the image of TVET and its contributions to national development.
#### **Innovation and Skills Development Through TVET**
TVET education is not merely about acquiring skills; it’s about fostering **innovation** and aligning with industry needs. Ogamba stated, **“TVET addresses skills deficiencies by focusing on practical, competency-based learning.”** He pointed out that many sectors, including **manufacturing, construction, hospitality, and ICT**, are in urgent need of skilled workers, and TVET can fill this gap.
Moreover, **entrepreneurship** is a crucial aspect of TVET, empowering graduates to become **job creators** rather than mere job seekers. Many skilled artisans have established their own **small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)**, contributing significantly to local economic growth.
### **Pushing for Competency-Based Education & Training (CBET)**
Ogamba is an ardent supporter of **Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET)**, identifying it as a foundational element in Kenya’s education reform agenda. This model aims to produce graduates that are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with practical skills essential for today’s competitive job market.
#### **Implementing a Shift in Educational Approach**
To meet the demands of modern industries, Ogamba urged TVET principals to institutionalize CBET practices within their curricula:
– Transition from **content-driven instruction** to learner-centered facilitation.
– Integrate **workplace simulations** and maintain robust partnerships with industry.
– Adopt **continuous evaluation**, portfolio reviews, and practical assessments instead of traditional exams.
### **Fostering Mental Wellness and a Culture of Continuous Learning**
The CS also addressed the significance of **mental wellness** within TVET institutions. He encouraged TVET leaders to develop **counseling programs** and raise community awareness about mental health, creating safe and supportive environments for students and staff alike.
To foster a culture of continuous learning, Ogamba urged principals to motivate their trainers and administrators to engage in ongoing education and professional development.
### **Final Thoughts: Embracing a New Era for TVET in Kenya**
The urgency of Ogamba’s message is clear: to **transform perceptions** of TVET and highlight its critical role in Kenya’s economic landscape, branding must be prioritized. By focusing on innovation, entrepreneurial skills, and robust mental health support, TVET institutions can emerge as **powerhouses** of talent and development.
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