MMUST TVET College Receives Approval to Implement Recognition of Prior Learning Programme
MMUST TVET College has received approval to implement the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Programme, paving way for thousands of skilled artisans, technicians and workers to have their competencies formally assessed, recognized, and certified regardless of how they acquired their skills. This milestone follows the University’s accreditation by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) as a Qualification Awarding Body (QAB), empowering MMUST to conduct RPL assessments and award Qualifications in accordance with the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF). The accreditation certificate was presented to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo on 2nd July, 2026 by KNQA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Alice Kande and Hon. Stanley Kiptis, Chairman of the KNQA Board. The VC was accompanied by the Principal of MMUST TVET College, Prof. Stephen Odebero and the Director of Career Services, Prof. Robert Egessa.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Shibairo described the approval as a significant milestone in advancing technical and vocational education and skills recognition in Kenya. “The RPL programme will provide an opportunity for thousands of youths and experienced workers, to have skills acquired through work experience, informal learning and apprenticeship formally recognized. This initiative aligns with the Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) that seeks to enhance employability, productivity and economic empowerment,” stated Prof. Shibairo.
Prof. Solomon Shibairo explains a point to KNQA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Alice Kande.
Prof. Odebero affirmed that the College is fully prepared to operationalize the programme, revealing that more than 4,000 youths and skilled workers have already expressed interest in undergoing assessment and certification through the RPL framework.
“Recognition of Prior Learning will bridge the gap for many Kenyans who possess valuable practical skills but lack formal qualifications. Further, it will open pathways to employment, career progression, higher education and entrepreneurship,” he said.
The Principal of MMUST TVET College, Prof. Stephen Odebero speaks during the event.
KNQA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Alice Kande congratulated MMUST on achieving this milestone and urged the University to uphold the highest quality standards that adhere to KNQA guidelines in conducting RPL assessments and issuing qualifications.
With the new mandate, MMUST TVET College is strategically positioned to become a regional hub in Recognition of Prior Learning. The programme is expected to benefit mechanics, builders, fabricators, electricians, plumbers, ICT practitioners, health workers, agricultural practitioners and other skilled professionals.
Certainly, the Recognition of Prior Learning Programme will support industries through provision of a credible mechanism for validating workforce competencies while contributing to Kenya’s agenda of promoting lifelong learning, skills development and inclusive economic growth.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje, and Caren Nekesa, Simiyu N. Frida, Griffin A. Okwaro
Photos [Courtesy]
