Technical and Vocational Education and Training has become one of the most practical pathways for Kenyan youth seeking employment and self-employment opportunities. Understanding TVET courses and fees in Kenya helps students make informed decisions about their education after KCSE.
Many students and parents overlook TVET institutions, focusing only on university education. However, TVET colleges offer affordable, skills-based training that leads directly to employment or business opportunities.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about TVET colleges in Kenya courses, admission requirements, fees, career prospects, and how to access government sponsorship programs.
Whether you scored a D+ in KCSE or are looking for practical skills training, TVET education provides valuable opportunities for your future success.
What Are TVET Courses?
TVET stands for Technical and Vocational Education and Training. These are practical, hands-on courses that teach specific job skills in various trades and professions.
TVET courses focus on preparing students for immediate employment or self-employment rather than purely academic knowledge.
In Kenya, TVET institutions are regulated by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA), which ensures quality standards and curriculum relevance to the job market.
Types of TVET Institutions in Kenya:
- National Polytechnics (like Kenya Polytechnic, Mombasa Polytechnic)
- Technical Training Institutes
- Institutes of Technology
- Vocational Training Centres
- Youth Polytechnics
- Private TVET colleges
Who Should Consider TVET Education?
- KCSE graduates with grades D+ to C+ who want practical skills
- Students who prefer hands-on learning over theoretical studies
- Young people seeking quick entry into the job market
- Those interested in starting their own businesses
- Adults looking to change careers or gain new skills
- Students who cannot afford university education
Why TVET Courses Are Important in Kenya
The Kenyan government has prioritized TVET education as a key driver of economic development and youth employment.
Job Market Relevance
Kenya faces a skills gap in technical fields. Many employers struggle to find qualified technicians, artisans, and craftspeople. TVET graduates fill these critical gaps in industries like construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and information technology.
The government’s Big Four Agenda and Vision 2030 emphasize manufacturing and infrastructure development, creating thousands of jobs for TVET graduates.
Self-Employment Opportunities
TVET certificate courses Kenya provide practical skills for starting businesses. A graduate with plumbing, electrical, carpentry, or tailoring skills can immediately start earning income without formal employment.
Many successful Kenyan entrepreneurs built their businesses on TVET training, offering services in their communities or supplying products to larger companies.
Government Priority and Support
The government has invested heavily in TVET infrastructure, expanding facilities and introducing government sponsored TVET courses to make technical education accessible to all Kenyans.
Programs like the Kenya Youth Employment and Opportunities Project (KYEOP) provide free TVET training to vulnerable youth, recognizing the sector’s importance in reducing unemployment.
Affordability
TVET courses cost significantly less than university degrees. Government TVET institutions charge reasonable fees, and many students complete their training within one to two years instead of four years at university.
Requirements to Pursue TVET Courses in Kenya
TVET courses requirements Kenya vary depending on the course level and institution.
Artisan Certificate Courses:
- Minimum KCSE D (Plain) or equivalent
- Some institutions accept D- for certain courses
- Age requirement: Usually 15 years and above
- Duration: 1 to 2 terms (6 months to 1 year)
Craft Certificate Courses:
- Minimum KCSE D+ (Plus)
- Some technical courses may require specific subject grades
- Age: Typically 16 years and above
- Duration: 2 to 3 terms (1 to 1.5 years)
Diploma Courses:
- Minimum KCSE C- (Minus) with specific subject requirements
- Craft Certificate in a relevant field
- Age: Usually 17 years and above
- Duration: 4 to 6 terms (2 to 3 years)
Higher Diploma:
- Relevant Diploma qualification
- Work experience may be required for some courses
- Duration: 2 to 4 terms (1 to 2 years)
General Requirements:
- Original KCSE certificate or result slip
- National ID or birth certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Registration and examination fees
- Medical certificate for certain courses
Special Considerations:
Some institutions offer bridging programs for students who don’t meet minimum requirements. Mature entry may be available for individuals aged 25 and above with relevant work experience.
Physical fitness is required for courses like construction, while good eyesight matters for electronics and electrical courses. Specific courses may have additional requirements based on the nature of training.
TVET Colleges in Kenya and Their Courses
Kenya has over 1,500 registered TVET institutions offering diverse courses across the country.
Engineering and Technology:
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Plumbing and Pipe Fitting
- Welding and Fabrication
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
- Building and Construction
- Carpentry and Joinery
Information Communication Technology:
- Computer Studies
- Software Development
- Network Administration
- Cyber Security
- Web Design and Development
- Digital Marketing
- Graphic Design
- Animation and Multimedia
Business and Management:
- Business Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Sales and Marketing
- Human Resource Management
- Secretarial Studies
- Front Office Operations
- Entrepreneurship Development
Hospitality and Tourism:
- Food and Beverage Production
- Food and Beverage Service
- Accommodation Operations
- Tour Guiding
- Pastry and Confectionery
- Catering and Accommodation
Agriculture:
- Crop Production
- Animal Health and Production
- Agricultural Engineering
- Horticulture
- Dairy Technology
- Food Science and Technology
Health Sciences:
- Pharmacy Technology
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Community Health
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Health Records and Information Management
- Occupational Health and Safety
Fashion and Beauty:
- Fashion Design and Garment Making
- Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
- Cosmetology
- Textile and Interior Design
Applied Sciences:
- Laboratory Technology
- Environmental Science
- Renewable Energy Technology
- Water and Sanitation
Major Government TVET Institutions:
- Kenya Polytechnic (Nairobi)
- Mombasa Polytechnic
- Eldoret National Polytechnic
- Kisumu National Polytechnic
- The Kenya Coast National Polytechnic
- Kitale National Polytechnic
- Kabete National Polytechnic
- Sigalagala National Polytechnic
Each institution offers different combinations of courses based on their specialization and available facilities.
TVET Courses Fees in Kenya
Fees vary significantly between government and private institutions, and across different course levels.
Government TVET Institutions:
Artisan Certificates:
- Registration: KES 1,000 – KES 3,000
- Tuition per term: KES 3,000 – KES 8,000
- Examination fees: KES 1,500 – KES 3,000
- Total annual cost: KES 10,000 – KES 25,000
Craft Certificates:
- Registration: KES 2,000 – KES 4,000
- Tuition per term: KES 5,000 – KES 12,000
- Examination fees: KES 2,000 – KES 4,000
- Total annual cost: KES 18,000 – KES 40,000
Diploma Courses:
- Registration: KES 3,000 – KES 6,000
- Tuition per term: KES 10,000 – KES 20,000
- Examination fees: KES 3,000 – KES 6,000
- Total annual cost: KES 35,000 – KES 70,000
Higher Diploma:
- Registration: KES 5,000 – KES 8,000
- Tuition per term: KES 15,000 – KES 25,000
- Examination fees: KES 4,000 – KES 8,000
- Total annual cost: KES 50,000 – KES 90,000
Private TVET Colleges:
Fees are generally higher, ranging from:
- Artisan: KES 20,000 – KES 50,000 per year
- Craft: KES 30,000 – KES 70,000 per year
- Diploma: KES 50,000 – KES 150,000 per year
Additional Costs:
- Accommodation (boarding): KES 15,000 – KES 40,000 per term
- Tools and equipment: KES 5,000 – KES 20,000 (one-time)
- Uniforms and protective gear: KES 3,000 – KES 10,000
- Books and learning materials: KES 2,000 – KES 8,000 per year
- Industrial attachment costs: KES 5,000 – KES 15,000
Government Sponsored TVET Courses:
The government offers various funding options:
- HELB loans for diploma students
- County government scholarships
- National government bursaries
- NGO and CDF scholarships
- Free training through KYEOP for vulnerable youth
- Subsidized fees for needy and deserving students
Many government institutions allow installment payments, making fees more manageable for families.
Career Opportunities After TVET Training
TVET graduates have numerous employment and self-employment opportunities across Kenya.
Engineering and Construction:
- Electrical technician in companies or government
- Plumber for construction firms or self-employed
- Welder in manufacturing industries
- Automotive mechanic in garages or own workshop
- Building contractor or foreman
- HVAC technician for hotels and offices
ICT Sector:
- Computer technician or IT support
- Web developer for agencies or freelance
- Graphic designer for media houses
- Network administrator in organizations
- Cyber café operator (self-employed)
- Software developer for tech companies
Hospitality Industry:
- Chef in hotels and restaurants
- Pastry chef or baker (employed or own bakery)
- Waiter or bartender in hotels
- Accommodation supervisor
- Catering service business owner
- Event planning and management
Health Sector:
- Pharmacy technician in hospitals or private pharmacies
- Medical laboratory technician in clinics
- Community health worker
- Occupational health officer in industries
Agriculture:
- Farm manager or supervisor
- Agricultural extension officer
- Own farming business
- Greenhouse farming specialist
- Dairy farm operator
- Food processing entrepreneur
Beauty and Fashion:
- Salon owner or employed stylist
- Fashion designer with own boutique
- Tailor in garment factories
- Beauty therapist in spas
- Bridal makeup artist
Self-Employment Options:
TVET graduates excel in self-employment because their skills are immediately marketable. Starting a business with TVET skills requires minimal capital compared to other ventures.
Many graduates begin by offering services from home or renting small workshop spaces, gradually expanding as they build clientele and reputation.
Expected Salary and Income in Kenya
Income varies based on qualification level, experience, location, and whether you’re employed or self-employed.
Entry-Level Salaries (Artisan/Craft Certificate):
- Electrical technician: KES 15,000 – KES 30,000 per month
- Plumber: KES 12,000 – KES 25,000 per month
- Mechanic: KES 15,000 – KES 28,000 per month
- ICT support: KES 18,000 – KES 35,000 per month
- Chef/cook: KES 12,000 – KES 25,000 per month
- Hairdresser: KES 10,000 – KES 20,000 per month
Mid-Level Salaries (Diploma Holders with Experience):
- Senior technician: KES 30,000 – KES 60,000 per month
- IT administrator: KES 35,000 – KES 70,000 per month
- Head chef: KES 40,000 – KES 80,000 per month
- Medical lab technician: KES 35,000 – KES 65,000 per month
- Engineering supervisor: KES 45,000 – KES 90,000 per month
Self-Employed Income Potential:
- Electrician: KES 20,000 – KES 150,000 per month
- Plumber: KES 25,000 – KES 120,000 per month
- Welder: KES 30,000 – KES 200,000 per month
- Salon owner: KES 30,000 – KES 150,000 per month
- Catering business: KES 40,000 – KES 300,000 per month
- Cyber café owner: KES 20,000 – KES 100,000 per month
Self-employed income varies greatly depending on location, marketing skills, quality of work, and business management abilities.
Urban areas generally offer higher income potential than rural areas, but rural areas have less competition and lower business operation costs.
Experienced TVET graduates with additional certifications and strong reputations can earn more than some university graduates, especially in specialized technical fields.
Pros and Cons of TVET Education
Understanding both advantages and disadvantages helps students and parents make informed decisions.
Advantages:
- Lower fees compared to university education
- Shorter training duration (1-3 years vs 4+ years)
- Practical, hands-on skills that are immediately useful
- High employability in technical fields
- Strong foundation for self-employment
- Government support and funding opportunities
- Less academic pressure than university
- Industrial attachment provides real work experience
- Skills remain relevant throughout life
- Growing demand for technical professionals in Kenya
- Can upgrade from certificate to diploma to degree
- Multiple intakes per year at many institutions
- Accepted KCSE grades are lower than university requirements
Disadvantages:
- Social stigma, some people view TVET as inferior to university
- Limited research opportunities compared to universities
- Fewer scholarship options than university programs
- Some courses require purchasing expensive tools
- Physical demands of certain technical courses
- Limited progression to postgraduate studies
- Workshop accidents possible if safety rules not followed
- Some employers still prefer university degrees
- Facilities may be inadequate in some institutions
- Recognition challenges when seeking work abroad
- Gender stereotypes in some technical fields
- Less prestige in professional circles
Despite these challenges, the practical benefits and career opportunities make TVET education a valuable choice for many Kenyan youth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the minimum KCSE grade for TVET courses?
The minimum grade is D (Plain) for artisan courses, D+ (Plus) for craft certificates, and C- (Minus) for diploma courses. However, specific courses and institutions may have different requirements. Some TVET colleges accept students with lower grades for certain practical courses.
Are TVET certificates recognized for employment in Kenya?
Yes, TVET certificates from TVETA-registered institutions are recognized by employers in Kenya. Many technical positions specifically require TVET qualifications rather than university degrees. Government jobs, private companies, and NGOs all hire TVET graduates for appropriate positions.
Can I join university after completing TVET diploma?
Yes, TVET diploma holders can join university for degree programs. Many universities accept diploma graduates for direct entry into second year or offer bridging programs. Some universities have partnerships with TVET institutions for smooth transitions.
How do I apply for government sponsored TVET courses?
Apply through the TVET institutions directly during their admission periods. For financial support, apply for HELB loans if eligible, check with your county government for scholarships, apply for national government bursaries, or inquire about KYEOP free training programs for vulnerable youth.
Which TVET course has the best job opportunities in Kenya?
ICT-related courses, electrical installation, plumbing, welding, and hospitality courses currently have strong job markets. However, the best course depends on your interests, local demand, and career goals. Research your local job market before choosing.
Do TVET students get paid during industrial attachment?
Some companies pay industrial attachment stipends ranging from KES 5,000 to KES 15,000 per month, while others offer unpaid attachments. Payment depends on the company’s policy and the industry. The main benefit is gaining practical experience and potential employment after training.
Can I study TVET courses online?
Some TVET courses have online components, especially business and ICT courses. However, most technical courses require hands-on practical training in workshops and laboratories, making fully online study impossible. Check with specific institutions about blended learning options.
What is the difference between TVET and university education?
TVET focuses on practical, job-specific skills for immediate employment or self-employment. University education emphasizes theoretical knowledge, research, and broader academic understanding. TVET is shorter and cheaper, while universities take longer and cost more but may offer more career flexibility.
Final Thoughts
TVET courses and fees in Kenya provide accessible, affordable, and practical education pathways for thousands of young people. Understanding the available courses, requirements, and costs helps you make informed decisions about your future.
The Kenyan government’s commitment to TVET development means more opportunities, better facilities, and increased funding for students. With proper planning, you can access quality technical training regardless of your financial situation.
Whether you scored a D+ or C+ in KCSE, TVET education offers valuable skills that lead directly to employment or business opportunities. Many successful Kenyans built thriving careers and businesses on TVET foundations.
Focus on choosing courses aligned with your interests and local job market needs. With dedication and proper training, TVET graduates can achieve financial independence and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s economic development.
Research thoroughly, visit institutions before applying, and take advantage of government funding programs to make your TVET education journey successful.
