Government to Roll Out Virtual Reality in TVET Institutions.
The integration of simulation-based learning is poised to redefine training in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across Kenya.
This shift is being driven by a government initiative aimed at embedding Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) into technical training programs.
The effort is being spearheaded by the State Department for TVETs in collaboration with Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT) in Nyeri.
As part of this initiative, a one-month capacity-building workshop was recently completed, targeting 60 TVET trainers. This pioneering group is expected to be the first to apply VR and AR technologies in their respective institutions, enhancing the Competence-Based Education and Training model.
According to DeKUT’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Peter Muchiri, the training focused on equipping trainers with skills relevant to emerging technologies such as digital twins, smart automation, virtual commissioning, and mechatronics integration.
He emphasized that this digital transformation is essential for aligning TVET training with current industrial demands, thereby producing a market-ready workforce.
Prof Muchiri noted that the digital era is reshaping education and innovation, and stakeholders must ensure that educational institutions evolve accordingly.
The training was sponsored by the African Union’s Skills Initiative for Africa and jointly funded by the German Government and the European Union, reflecting a multi-stakeholder commitment to technological advancement in education.
Learning Through Simulation
The adoption of VR and AR will allow TVETs to simulate complex machine operations found in actual industries. VR will create immersive environments where trainees can build, test, and troubleshoot systems without real-world risks.
In contrast, AR will overlay digital instructions on real equipment, guiding learners step-by-step through technical procedures.
Prof Jean Bosco, Director of the Siemens Mechatronics Certification Centre at DeKUT and lead trainer at the workshop, explained that this approach connects education directly with real-life industrial contexts.
He noted that the system being developed—referred to as an “industrial metaverse”—would replicate all machinery used in industries within a virtual space.
This platform will enable trainers to teach any technology present in the virtual environment, helping to bridge the skills gap between academia and industry.
Prof Bosco also pointed out that the use of virtual platforms could significantly reduce the cost of procuring training equipment. He gave the example of mechanical and automotive training, where the expense of acquiring vehicles limits hands-on learning.
With a virtual car, however, trainees can safely learn in a controlled environment, gaining essential skills without the financial burden of physical equipment.
Moreover, the technology allows trainees and trainers in different locations to access the same virtual space, making collaboration and shared learning possible regardless of physical distance.
Prof Bosco emphasized that this not only enhances practical experience but also addresses the lack of infrastructure in many institutions.
Government Support and Future Plans
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba highlighted that the program will strengthen collaboration between TVETs, industries, and universities.
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He stated that such partnerships are crucial for fostering innovation and applied research within local institutions. Ogamba affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting this transformation by providing training resources and retooling opportunities for educators.
He added that the government has been supplying institutions with essential equipment, although financial challenges have affected some universities.
Moving forward, the government plans to prioritize funding local universities to manufacture training tools, thus promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on imported resources.
Government to Roll Out Virtual Reality in TVET Institutions.
