Don Bosco Tech Africa (DBTA) and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) are exploring opportunities for collaboration to strengthen links between technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions and industry, with a focus on demand-driven skills development, entrepreneurship and youth employment.
The two organisations held a consultative meeting on 3rd November 2026 to discuss how closer cooperation could help ensure that young people acquire practical skills that respond to the needs of employers and the changing labour market.
A key focus of the discussions was the need for greater private-sector involvement in TVET. Both organisations recognised the importance of engaging employers in identifying skills gaps, reviewing training programmes, supporting apprenticeships and providing opportunities for workplace learning and mentorship.
The meeting also explored opportunities to strengthen entrepreneurship and digital skills development, building on DBTA’s ongoing Entrepreneurship and E-Commerce Skills Study in Kenya. KNCCI expressed willingness to support the study by sharing private-sector perspectives through its business membership and industry networks.
Other areas of interest included the proposed Kenya-Germany TVET and industry partnership, China-Kenya technical skills cooperation, technology transfer and innovation. These initiatives could create opportunities for technical exchanges, training of trainers and industry-aligned training programmes, as well as potential international employment pathways for suitably trained graduates.
The discussions also explored the potential to position TVET centres as hubs for cottage and light industry development. This would involve making better use of existing training facilities and equipment while strengthening collaboration with industry partners. Beyond providing training opportunities, industry players could contribute technical mentorship, expertise and guidance on production processes, helping TVET centres develop practical production capabilities and support enterprise development.
The meeting brought together representatives from both organisations, including DBTA Deputy Director John Ngigi Njuguna, Communications Officer Beatrice Muya, Project Officer Jean Nepomuscene and Research and Development Officer Ngure Githinji. KNCCI was represented by Head of Operations Stephen Osedo and Partnerships Manager Saum Siraj.
As a next step, the organisations will explore priority areas for collaboration, facilitate engagement with KNCCI’s TVET Sector Board and identify potential pilot initiatives with clear objectives and expected outcomes.
