Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are critical in providing individuals with the practical skills and hands-on experience required for a variety of industries.
In our episode of #TVETLiveMtaani {daily 10am, 2pm and 7:20pm}, we explore different TVET courses that effectively complement the building and construction sector in Kenya. This is in relation to the government’s ambitions to build around 200,000 homes each year under the social housing project. A move that will not only offer affordable accommodation, but will also create jobs.
Building and Construction Technology
The course in Building and Construction Technology imparts knowledge about construction materials, techniques, and management. Students learn architectural drawing, structural design, construction technology, and project management, enabling them to understand the entire construction process from inception to completion.
“Najifunza niwe mmoja wa wajenzi na pia nielimishe taifa kuhusu ujenzi. Mara mingi kuna wakati nimekuwa mahali kuna mjengo unapata fundi anasema mawe lorry tatu inahitajika na ukiangalia lorry mbili itatosha”
~Daisy Chepchergon (Building and Construction Technology Student)
With skilled and honest fundis like Daisy, cases of collapsing construction buildings due to crocked fundis will be greatly reduced, and housing quality will increase.
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Civil Engineering: Civil engineering is a another sought-after career path in the construction industry. Graduates can work as site supervisors, project managers, or even start their own construction businesses.
Plumbing and Pipe fitting: Under the Civil Engineering umbrella, students learn about pipe materials, water supply systems, drainage systems, and plumbing fixtures. Graduates can work as plumbers, pipe fitters, or plumbing technicians in construction projects, assuring the proper operation of water and sewage systems.
Electrical Installation: Electrical installation courses cover electrical circuits, wiring, lighting system installation, and electrical equipment maintenance.
According to Jermaine Luvisia, an electrical and electronic trainer at Maasai Mara Narok TVC, one can begin as an Artisan and work their way up to acquiring a certificate and even a diploma. This will allow them to work as electricians, electrical technicians, or electrical engineers in the construction business.
“skills ndio zitakuuza”
Luvisia ( an electrical and electronic trainer at Maasai Mara Narok TVC )
Carpentry and Joinery: With the need for roofing, closets, cabinets, and other wooden structures in building, carpentry and joinery courses prepare graduates to work as carpenters, joiners, or furniture makers, bringing their skill and knowledge to the construction industry.
Carpentry and Joinery: With the need for roofing, closets, cabinets, and other wooden structures in building, carpentry and joinery courses prepare graduates to work as carpenters, joiners, or furniture makers, bringing their skill and knowledge to the construction industry.
Masonry and Bricklaying: Graduates will find employment as masons, bricklayers, or construction workers .
Finally, Quantity Surveying: This prepares graduates to work as quantity surveyors or cost estimators, ensuring building projects stay on budget and exceed financial targets.
As the saying goes, “Kazi kwa mikono ni pesa mkononi” – enrolling in these TVET institutes not only improves your employability but also contributes to the expansion of Kenya’s construction sector.
