Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy Undergoes Final Adjustments Ahead of Graduation Ceremony
Dr. Esther Muoria, principal secretary for technical and vocational education and training, has stated that the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy will incorporate more input from all stakeholders prior to its implementation, and that the first commencement ceremony scheduled for early October is on track.
Muoria stated at Jogoo House, where she received a briefing on the review of the RPL policy from the Technical Committee established by the Ministry of Education, that the Policy and guidelines will establish criteria for assessing and certifying acquired skills and competencies through experience.
Muoria expressed his appreciation for the progress made by the Committee reviewing the implementation guidelines and Policy Framework on Recognition of Prior Learning, which is being led by Dr. Alice Kande, the acting Director General of the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA).
He highlighted that this initiative would provide certificates to skilled but uncertified youths, recognizing their individual competencies and thereby broadening their employment and advanced learning prospects.
The multisectoral committee consists of representatives from the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations, the Council of Governors, the Ministry of Education, NITA, and the TVET CDACC, among others, and is reviewing the KNQA’s 2021 policy.
Kande thanked the technical Committee for its tireless dedication to the task and stated that the policy would be implemented to effectively coordinate and harmonize the national curriculum development approach in order to produce skilled human resources with the right attitude and values required for the growth and prosperity of the various economic sectors.
Kande added that collaboration between industry and academia can produce a dynamic and receptive environment for advising market-driven courses.
Kande emphasized that industry experts hold practical knowledge about the ever-changing market trends, skill requirements, and emerging technologies.
According to her, their active involvement with academic institutions allows them to offer essential advice on curriculum development, guaranteeing that educational programs remain in sync with both present and future job market necessities.
Furthermore, she pointed out that through robust collaborations, the industry can contribute substantial insights, expertise, and resources to enhance students’ educational journeys.
This collaboration ensures that students acquire skills that are relevant to the current employment landscape. In parallel, academia can play its part by customizing curricula to align with industry requirements and incorporating theoretical learning with practical hands-on training.
On October 6, 2023, the Authority will launch the RPL Policy and graduate the first RPL cohort.
Since then, the Presidential Working Group on Education Reform (PWPER) has recommended that the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy and Credit Accumulation and Transfer Systems (CATS) be implemented in Kenya.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy Undergoes Final Adjustments Ahead of Graduation Ceremony
