Stakeholders in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from 13th to 14th May 2024 for a regional sensitisation and dissemination workshop on the recently Adopted Regional Policy Frameworks for harmonisation of TVET qualification among the three countries.
The Regional Policy Frameworks, which include the Regional Framework for Occupational Competency Assessment and Certification (RFOCAC) and the Regional Policy Framework for TVET Integration (RPFTI), are expected to facilitate regional integration and enhance the mobility of skilled labour through the implementation of standardized curricula and occupational competency.
Speaking at the workshop, the Principal Secretary, State Department of Vocational and Technical Training, Ministry of Education, Kenya, Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, who was the Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of the workshop, stating, “This workshop is a testament to our collective commitment to elevate the standards of TVET in East Africa. Harmonization of occupational standards and qualifications, will facilitate the mobility of skilled workforce and foster regional integration.”
The Deputy Executive Secretary of the Inter-University Council for East Africa, Prof. Idris Rai, said: “The adoption and implementation of these frameworks will pave the way for a mutually recognized system of qualifications across East Africa, enhancing both learner and labour mobility. This is a significant step in our journey towards greater regional integration.”
The World Bank Task Team Leader for EASTRIP in Ethiopia, Mr. Biruk Gebreyohannes, noted, “The RFOCAC and RPFTI are cornerstone achievements of EASTRIP. Their successful implementation will increase recognition of TVET competency certificates, regardless of where they are issued within the region.”
Throughout the two-day workshop, participants discussed the details of the RFOCAC and RPFTI and explored strategies for effective implementation. The workshop included presentations and interactive discussions aimed at clarifying the practical application of the frameworks. Participants developed a detailed implementation plan, outlining roles and responsibilities for key stakeholders at regional, national, and institutional levels.
Prof. Rai remarked, “The success of these policy frameworks lies in our collective effort. It is imperative that every stakeholder, from policymakers to educational institutions, plays an active role in ensuring that the policy framework are effectively implemented.”
Harmonisation of TVET qualifications is part of the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP), funded by the World Bank and the governments of Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, to improve the quality and access of TVET programs to foster regional integration in East Africa.
By Godwin Bonge Muhwezi, Project Communication Officer for EASTRIP at Inter-University Council for East Africa.
