Government to Conduct Full Count of TVET Institutions Under New Plan

The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) will conduct a nationwide census of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions starting May 20, 2026, to map capacity and guide the rollout of the Competency-Based Education and Training curriculum.

Officials say the data will help the government allocate resources more effectively and ensure training matches labor market demands.

The exercise comes amid a crackdown on rogue colleges accused of issuing fake accreditations and unapproved certificates.

“We have a new curriculum called CBET, which offers practical skills, and this means that we require a lot of equipment and resources,” TVET Nakuru Regional Director Rosemary Kimani stated. “Therefore, the data is going to give us the direction to take so that we offer competent training.”

Verification and Assessment of TVET Institutions

The census will cover all categories of TVET institutions.

In March 2026, the Technical and Vocational Training Authority (TVETA) released a list of 3,057 approved institutions operating in Kenya.

The list includes 34 National Polytechnics, 1,807 Technical and Vocational Colleges, and 1,216 Vocational Training Centers.

KNBS officials state the census will verify the status of these institutions, assess infrastructure, staffing, and equipment levels, and identify gaps that hinder quality training.

The findings will inform budget allocation and support the transition to CBET, which emphasizes hands-on skills over theory.

In April, two institutions were closed down for giving out unrecognized accreditation to students, with several others issued notices.

Also Read:  TVETA CEO Breaks Down Reasons Behind Kenya Institute of Management Closure

Regulation and Oversight of TVET Institutions

TVETA said its attention had been drawn to an increase in the number of training institutions without the legal mandate to award certificates that have duped the public by issuing internal certificates.

During a December 8, 2022, visit to the Technical University of Kenya, President William Ruto interacted with students and pledged increased investment in technical training.

Also Read: KUCCPS Reopens Degree and TVET Course Application Portal for One Week

KNBS expects the census to provide a reliable baseline for monitoring TVET growth and accountability.

Authorities warn that institutions found operating without approval will face closure and prosecution.

The bureau will release preliminary findings after the field exercise, with a full report due later this year to guide policy and funding decisions for the sector.

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KNBS Director-General Macdonald Obudho. PHOTO/Parliament