TVET Graduates to Ditch Gowns in Bold Shift
A major shift in Kenya’s education sector is underway after the government announced that trainees graduating from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions will no longer wear traditional academic gowns.
The directive, issued by Principal Secretary in the State Department for TVETs Esther Muoria, requires all institutions to adopt attire that reflects the specific technical disciplines pursued by trainees.
Under the new approach, graduands will now showcase their skills through profession-based outfits—mechanics in overalls, chefs in full culinary uniforms, and other trainees in gear relevant to their fields.
Why the Government Is Scrapping Graduation Gowns
For years, TVET graduates have worn the same academic robes commonly associated with universities. However, according to Esther Muoria, this tradition fails to reflect the true nature and identity of technical training.
“Gowns are academic, and we are technical,” she stated, emphasizing the need to distinguish TVET institutions from conventional university education.
The PS argued that identical graduation attire has made it difficult to identify trainees’ areas of specialization, thereby undermining the visibility of their skills.
By introducing discipline-specific attire, the government aims to send a clear message about the value of practical skills in the modern economy.
A New Identity for TVET Graduates
The move is expected to redefine how TVET graduates are perceived both locally and internationally.
Instead of blending into a uniform academic appearance, graduates will now visually represent their profession at the point of graduation. This shift is designed to:
- Promote pride in technical careers
- Enhance visibility of skills and competencies
- Align graduation ceremonies with real-world job environments
For instance, a graduate from a mechanical engineering course will wear overalls, while those in hospitality will don chef or service uniforms—instantly communicating their expertise.
Critics Question the Decision
Despite the intended benefits, the directive has sparked mixed reactions across the education sector and among the public.
Some critics argue that removing academic gowns could diminish the prestige associated with graduation ceremonies, especially in a society where university-style graduations are often viewed as symbols of achievement.
Others, however, see the move as long overdue, noting that TVET institutions have historically been overshadowed by universities despite playing a crucial role in skills development.
The debate raises a fundamental question: should recognition come from tradition, or from the practical value of skills?
Announcement Made at Nyeri National Polytechnic
The directive was announced during the 6th graduation ceremony of Nyeri National Polytechnic, where approximately 2,500 graduands received certificates and diplomas in various technical and artisan courses.
The event marked a turning point, not just for the institution but for the broader TVET sector in Kenya.
Rapid Growth in TVET Enrollment
The policy shift comes at a time when the TVET sector is experiencing significant growth.
According to the government, student enrollment has surged from 350,000 in 2022 to over 850,000 currently. This rapid expansion highlights increasing interest in technical education as an alternative to traditional academic pathways.
To support this growth, the government plans to recruit 1,000 additional trainers within the year.
Enhancing Trainer Skills Through CBET
A key focus area for the government is aligning training with the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework.
To achieve this, trainers are undergoing retooling programs at the Kenya School of TVET and other accredited institutions.
The goal is to ensure that instructors are equipped with modern teaching methodologies that emphasize hands-on skills and real-world application.
Due to high demand, the government has also allowed trainers to seek CBET training from reputable institutions outside the Kenya School of TVET to accelerate the process.
Push for Financial Independence
Beyond curriculum and identity reforms, the government is also urging TVET institutions to become more financially sustainable.
Esther Muoria emphasized that reliance on government funding is no longer viable, given competing national priorities such as healthcare and infrastructure.
Institutions are being encouraged to explore alternative revenue streams, including:
- Commercial production using student skills
- Partnerships with industry players
- Innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives
Cost-Saving Measures Introduced
To further ease financial pressure, TVETs are being advised to adopt cost-saving strategies such as:
- Installation of solar energy systems
- Rainwater harvesting
- Efficient resource management
These measures are expected to reduce operational costs while promoting sustainability.
“Build Your Own Institutions” Policy
In one of the more striking directives, the PS challenged TVET institutions to leverage their own expertise in construction and production.
She directed that infrastructure projects within TVETs should be handled internally by students and staff in relevant departments, particularly those in civil engineering and building courses.
This approach aims to:
- Reduce construction costs
- Provide practical training opportunities
- Reinforce confidence in locally developed skills
“There is no reason why we should bring other people from outside to come and build our space, yet we are the builders,” she stated.
A Transformative Moment for TVETs
The decision to eliminate graduation gowns represents more than just a change in attire—it signals a broader shift in how technical education is positioned in Kenya.
By emphasizing identity, skills, and self-reliance, the government is attempting to elevate the status of TVET institutions and align them with the country’s economic needs.
What This Means for the Future
If successfully implemented, the new policy could reshape public perception of technical careers and encourage more young people to pursue vocational training.
However, its success will depend on:
- Effective implementation across institutions
- Public acceptance of the new graduation format
- Continued investment in training infrastructure and quality
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Kenya’s TVET sector is undergoing a bold transformation that could redefine education and employment pathways for years to come.