Why Top KCSE Students Are Choosing TVET Courses Over University Programs.
The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has noted a surprising trend where students who attain C+ and above in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) are increasingly choosing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs over traditional university courses.
This shift, according to KUCCPS, is driven by various factors, including the practicality and flexibility of TVET courses. By March this year, more than 7,000 students with university-entry qualifications had opted to enroll in TVET institutions.
High Demand Courses and Practical Training
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) shows that the most sought-after TVET courses include electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, hospitality and culinary arts, and automotive engineering. These programs are particularly appealing due to their relevance in the current job market and the emphasis on hands-on experience.
TVET institutions prioritize practical skills over theoretical knowledge, providing students with a competitive edge when entering the workforce. Contrary to criticism, the TVET curriculum is not outdated; instead, it is designed to meet modern industry demands by focusing more on skill application than rote learning.
Why Top Performers Prefer TVET
The increasing appeal of TVET courses is linked to their ability to fast-track students into employment. Students who perform well in their KCSE exams often prefer starting at the diploma level in a TVET institution rather than pursuing lengthy university degrees. The practical nature and immediate applicability of TVET training make it a strategic choice for career-oriented students.
Improvements in the Application Process
KUCCPS has taken steps to address past challenges with the student application process. Following complaints last year regarding submission delays, improvements were made to the application portal. These issues were attributed to the integration with the eCitizen payment system, which caused significant lags in processing.
Read Also: Why Students Are Often Placed in Unchosen Courses: KUCCPS Clarifies
To avoid a repeat of such problems, the placement process has been staggered to prevent server overload, allowing a smoother experience for applicants. These updates were implemented after concerns were raised nationwide, especially by students who had difficulty completing their applications.
Application Timeline for 2024 Cohort
The clarification from KUCCPS comes shortly after the official opening of the placement portal for both degree and TVET applications targeting the 2024 KCSE candidates. As announced on March 28, the application period will remain open for four weeks and is scheduled to close on April 30.
Why Top KCSE Students Are Choosing TVET Courses Over University Programs.
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