Govt To Facilitate Recognition Of Prior Learning (RPL)
Ezekiel Machogu, Cabinet Secretary for Education, has underlined the need of aligning skills through RPL and micro-credentials with the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum.
Speaking at the Kenya School of TVET in Nairobi during the release of the March/July CBET results, Machogu emphasized the government’s emphasis on the Affordable Housing Programme and its potential to create employment and provide opportunities for the youth to showcase their skills, some of which they acquired informally.
“Through the Recognition of Prior learning, we will ensure they have the requisite credentials to facilitate their employment,” the secretary of state added.
Experts in the education sector, led by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), have already assessed the RPL policy framework and differential unit cost and given a report to the government.
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The strategy aims to be consistent with the new National Economic Agenda, known as the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The Presidential Working Party on Education Reform (PWPER), which issued its report in August of this year, suggested that Kenya apply the RPL policy and Credit Accumulation and Transfer Systems (CATS).
Prof Raphael Munavu’s team advocated increased awareness development on Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Accumulation and Transfer Systems in a study delivered to President William Ruto.
According to Dr. Alice Kande, Ag. Director General (DG)/CEO of the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), the move is to offer a framework for talent recognition through the issue of certificates based on competency to better enable them to participate in various economic opportunities.
RPL, according to Dr. Kande, has been accepted as a redress mechanism for previous injustices, promoting increased employability, mobility, progression, and access within education, training, and development job paths.
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Internationally, she emphasized, RPL is used as a tool for lifelong learning by providing access to higher education, awarding credit toward a qualification, and admitting students to formal institutions of learning. Advanced standing and credit accumulation and transfer; credit transfer or harmonization (national and foreign credits); acknowledgment of experiential learning; and regulatory requirements of specific sectors in terms of employing qualified people.
According to the Ag. CEO, Section 8(1)(k) of the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF) Act compels the authority to promote lifelong learning and acknowledge the acquisition of skills achieved via various techniques, both formally and informally.
Furthermore, the Authority understands that not all abilities are gained in academic settings, citing mechanics, technicians, plumbers, and tailors as examples of great skills obtained through their employment.
She argued that despite significantly contributing to the country’s socioeconomic progress, these abilities remain mainly unrecognized, underappreciated, and underutilized. The need to review the policy is to align it with global and national priorities.
KNQA reported that they undertook the task of realigning their policy framework.
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The organization emphasized the understanding that their policies should not exist in isolation but should seamlessly integrate with the broader vision of the government, aligning with the National Economic Agenda and the Bottom-Up Transformation Agenda—a vision that champions inclusivity, empowerment, and the enhancement of the nation’s human capital.
KNQA expressed acute awareness of the global megatrends that are reshaping industries and societies worldwide, as reiterated by Dr. Kande.
She further stated that the endorsement of the amended draft of the RPL Policy Framework is a testament to Kenya’s commitment to excellence and its everlasting dedication to the improvement of our community.
Dr. Kande emphasized that the revised framework is more than just a document; it signifies a commitment to citizens, asserting the value of their skills and experiences. The statement places emphasis on the perspective that education is an ongoing journey, respecting individual pathways.
Dr. Kande reinforced the notion that the revised framework represents a promise to the nation, signaling alignment with the forces of change, a commitment to embracing innovation, and a dedication to cultivating an environment where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
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Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, Principal Secretary State Department of Technical, Vocational Education and Training, was also present.
Govt To Facilitate Recognition Of Prior Learning (RPL)
