Desai urges stronger TVET-industry ties

TVET institutions need to keep pace with new technologies and changing industry demands to prepare graduates for today’s workplace, Centurion Systems Limited Managing Director Kevit Desai has said.
Addressing the Fourth International Research Conference, Skills Competition, Innovation, Career Guidance and Expo at Kabete National Polytechnic, Desai said rapid technological change is reshaping industries across Kenya and increasing demand for skilled, flexible workers.
He said sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, transport, utilities and construction are increasingly adopting technology-based solutions to boost productivity, efficiency and innovation.
“As technology continues to transform industries, training institutions must adopt stronger approaches to equip learners with practical skills and competencies that match market needs,” Desai said.
He said TVET institutions are central to Kenya’s economic growth agenda and should align their training programmes with industry-recognized standards so graduates gain relevant and measurable skills.
Desai said close cooperation between industry players and training institutions is vital to narrowing the gap between classroom instruction and workplace expectations, adding that such partnerships help students develop competencies aligned with labour market needs.
He commended Kabete National Polytechnic for hosting the international conference, calling it a valuable platform for academia, industry and government to discuss challenges in technical education and identify practical solutions.
Desai said the forum encouraged important discussions on continuous professional development for trainers, upgrading training infrastructure and incorporating digital technologies into skills development programmes.
A major issue raised at the conference was the need for TVET institutions to use virtual training technologies and simulation-based learning. Desai said digital tools can widen access to practical training as student enrolment keeps growing.
“We need to explore innovative approaches that enable more learners to access quality practical training while ensuring they acquire the competencies demanded by industry,” he said.
The conference also looked at ways to promote inclusivity and equity in the TVET sector by expanding opportunities for young women and men to gain market-driven skills and sustainable livelihoods.
Desai further stressed the need for regular engagement among policymakers, educators, industry leaders and development partners to build a responsive and future-focused TVET system.
He praised Kabete National Polytechnic for continuing to provide a space where stakeholders can exchange ideas, share experiences and develop solutions to strengthen technical education in Kenya.
Conference participants agreed that stronger links between industry and academia, greater investment in innovation and the adoption of emerging technologies are essential for preparing a skilled workforce able to support Kenya’s industrialization and economic transformation.
The three-day conference brought together educators, researchers, industry representatives, policymakers and students from across the country, underscoring the expanding role of TVET institutions in promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development.