Dr. Alice Kande, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), and Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, addressed the Senate Standing Committee on Education in a meeting held at Bunge Towers in Nairobi. The session focused on key developments in the education sector and policy updates aimed at enhancing quality and accessibility.
During the briefing, the duo outlined the distinct roles of National Government Agencies and County Governments in managing accreditation, credit transfers, training, and examinations. They emphasized the importance of these functions in ensuring the effective delivery of education across the country.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the integration of the National Qualifications Database with the Kenya Labour Market Information System. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education outcomes and labor market needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for employment opportunities.
Dr. Kande and Hon. Ogamba also updated the committee on several key policies aimed at strengthening the country’s education system. These include the dual training approach, which integrates theoretical classroom learning with practical workplace experience, and the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, which certifies skills acquired outside formal education systems. Additionally, they discussed the Credit Accumulation and Transfer System (CATS), a policy designed to allow students to seamlessly transfer credits between institutions, thereby promoting flexibility and mobility within the education sector.
The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to fostering a responsive, inclusive, and dynamic education system that aligns with national and global labor demands. Both leaders expressed their dedication to working collaboratively with the Senate and other stakeholders to ensure these initiatives are effectively implemented for the benefit of all Kenyans.
The Senate Standing Committee on Education lauded the progress made and reaffirmed its support for policies aimed at strengthening Kenya’s education framework. The session highlighted a shared commitment to improving the education sector and ensuring it continues to serve as a critical pillar for Kenya’s socio-economic development.