Collaboration — Gallery

Capacity Building Workshop on Dual Training at Akado Vocational Training Center

Gender Transformation in Dual TVET: Advancing Inclusive Skills Development and Industry Participation

Gender Transformation in Dual TVET: Advancing Inclusive Skills Development and Industry Participation focuses on promoting inclusive and gender-responsive approaches within Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems. The workshop aims to strengthen institutional and workplace learning environments by increasing female participation, retention, and transition into employment, particularly in traditionally male-dominated and green industry sectors. It brings together TVET institutions, industry partners, government, and development stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for achieving gender inclusion. The discussions emphasize the importance of gender mainstreaming in Dual TVET through equitable access to training opportunities, safe and supportive learning environments, and enhanced workplace exposure for female trainees. Key areas include addressing barriers faced by women during internships and apprenticeships, challenging stereotypes that limit women’s participation in technical fields, and promoting mentorship and leadership opportunities. Industry collaboration is highlighted as critical in creating inclusive workplaces and expanding opportunities for women in technical careers. The workshop is expected to generate practical recommendations, strengthen partnerships between institutions and industry, and encourage commitments towards implementing gender-transformative measures. Through shared dialogue and action planning, stakeholders aim to develop sustainable solutions that promote equal opportunities, empower women economically, and contribute to inclusive national development. Ultimately, the workshop seeks to create a more equitable and competitive TVET system that benefits both individuals and industries.

Empowering Young Single Mothers Through Education

Empowering Young Single Mothers Through Education At the heart of transformation lies education, hope, and opportunity. This initiative is dedicated to preparing TVET institutions to reintegrate young single mothers back into learning, empowering them with practical skills, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. Every young mother deserves a second chance to pursue her dreams, rebuild her future, and create a better life for her child. Through technical and vocational education, mentorship, and community support, we are breaking barriers, restoring dignity, and unlocking endless possibilities for women who refuse to give up on their future. This is more than education — it is restoration, empowerment, and social transformation. By investing in young single mothers today, we are building stronger families, resilient communities, and a more inclusive society for tomorrow. “Motherhood is not the end of a dream — it is the beginning of a stronger purpose.”

capacity building

Today in Nairobi, the KBEST Program implemented by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) convened a 'Leadership for Gender and Inclusion in TVET' workshop in collaboration with the The National Gender and Equality Commission-Kenya and The AECF through their investee Queen Dada. Spearheaded by Joel Oloo (STA, KBEST) and Linet Tanui (Gender Specialist, KBEST), and facilitated by Josephine Kagucia (Principal Research Officer, NGEC), Jael Amati (Gender Specialist, AECF), and Winnie Barawa (Queen Dada), the workshop brought together leaders from 24 partner TVET institutions. The forum focused on strengthening gender-responsive leadership and management, tracking progress on Gender Equality and Inclusion (GEI) initiatives, and co-creating practical solutions to advance equitable access, participation, and success for all learners. Key highlights included; Deep dives into gender-responsive leadership and Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB), a compelling business case for establishing daycare centres within TVET institutions, inspiring institutional showcases of innovative GEI initiatives and collective reflection on sustainable and inclusive next steps. This impactful engagement reaffirmed a shared commitment to transforming TVET institutions into safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces- where every learner, regardless of gender, disability status, religion, or background, can thrive. Alongside our partners, we are committed to championing bold, gender-transformative leadership for inclusive futures. #NikosetnaTVET

Food industry at akado

Benefits of Food and Beverage Training at Akado VTC 1. Equipping Youth with Practical Job Skills At Akado VTC, students are trained in hands-on culinary and hospitality skills, preparing them for direct employment in hotels, restaurants, and catering companies. This addresses unemployment in the region by producing job-ready graduates. 2. Promoting Self-Reliance and Entrepreneurship The program empowers learners to start their own small businesses such as: Catering for local events Establishing food kiosks and cafes Supplying baked goods and snacks to schools or markets This supports self-employment and reduces dependency on limited job opportunities. 3. Boosting the Local Economy Graduates from Akado VTC contribute to the economy by: Creating jobs for others Supporting local farmers by sourcing food locally Promoting food-related micro-enterprises within the community 4. Supporting Community Health and Hygiene Trainees are equipped with skills in food safety, hygiene, and nutrition, which helps improve public health outcomes in surrounding areas. Akado VTC becomes a center of excellence for safe and nutritious food preparation. 5. Tourism and Hospitality Linkages Given the growth of hospitality and tourism in Kenya, Akado VTC positions itself to produce skilled professionals who can work in: Local guesthouses Tourist lodges around Kisumu region Conference catering services 6. Gender Empowerment The course is open to both young men and women, giving equal opportunities in a field traditionally associated with women. This promotes gender balance and equips both genders with sustainable income-generating skills. 7. Affordable and Accessible Training Training at Akado VTC is cost-effective and locally available, enabling youth from disadvantaged backgrounds to access quality education and skills without leaving their community. 8. Community-Based Learning Akado VTC’s training model encourages students to apply what they learn within their own community. This localized impact helps uplift homes, churches, and schools through better food service and hygiene practices. 9. Pathway to Career Progression Graduates can advance to higher training levels, such as diploma courses in hospitality or even international culinary schools. Akado VTC lays the foundation for life-long learning. 10. Contributing to Vision 2030 and TVET Goals Akado VTC contributes to national development by aligning its training with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the TVET sector goals of creating skilled, self-reliant, and innovative youth.

Collaboration and Partnership