Experienced workers who haven’t gone through formal learning processes will have a chance to have their skills certified, if the National Assembly ratifies a Bill that seeks to apportion the role to the National Industrial Training Authority (Nita).
The Industrial Training (Amendment) Bill, 2024 by Kisumu Central lawmaker Joshua Oron, if enacted, will see industry experts including carpenters, welders and masons among others, gain enhanced access to new job opportunities.
The legislative proposal also seeks to task the Nita Board, with establishing the systems and processes for the recognition of prior learning (RPL).
RPL refers to the process used to identify, assess and certify an individual’s knowledge, skills and competencies against prescribed standards or learning outcomes regardless of how, when, and where they were acquired.
“Prior learning recognises the fact that people who work in formal, informal, non-formal and even jua kali sectors gain knowledge, skills, expertise and attributes through practice, and should have the opportunity for the recognition of their acquired knowledge and skills,” reads the Bill in part.
“The Bill... seeks to provide an avenue through which a person who acquires knowledge and skills through learning methods outside the academic environment, can apply for recognition of their skills.”
Cabinet had earlier in January this year, approved the RPL policy following recommendations from the Presidential Working Party on Educational Reform, which also said that linkages among vocational training centres would erase duplications and churn out excellence based on niche.
In a recent commentary on Business Daily publication, the Kenya National Qualifications Authority director-general Alice Kande, termed RPL a vital tool in the modern educational landscape in that it promotes inclusivity, efficiency as well as lifelong learning.
“In Kenya, RPL has gained traction as a vital tool for enhancing access to education and employment opportunities, particularly in a rapidly evolving job market,” wrote Ms Kande.
“As awareness and understanding of RPL continue to grow, it holds the potential to transform educational pathways and create more equitable opportunities for all.”
In September this year, ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, launched a programme that was geared towards linking Jua Kali artisans to formal employment and business financing opportunities, in a framework underpinned by validation of skills and expertise as stipulated in the RPL policy.
Mr Gachagua, at the time, said that the framework would provide a roadmap for assisting the artisans to transition into the formal space, for better pay and improved contribution to the economy, citing their looming enhanced participation in projects such as the affordable housing plan.
“We need to dignify skilled people so that they get the required papers. Let us dignify our skilled workforce by recognising their skills and certifying them. They are an organised workforce and are willing to work,” the ex-DP said at the time.
