Influence of Increased Trainees’ Enrolment on Collaboration Between Industries and TVET Institutions in Public TVET Institutions in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions play a central role in producing a skilled workforce for Kenya’s growing economy. Recent government initiatives to expand access have led to increased enrolments in public TVET institutions, raising concerns about how this growth affects collaboration with industries that are vital for practical skill development. This study examined the influence of increased trainees’ enrolment on collaboration between industries and public TVET institutions in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. A descriptive research design guided the study, targeting 17,800 trainees, 750 trainers, and 4 principals across four institutions. Using stratified and simple random sampling, the study engaged 1,780 trainees, 75 trainers, and all four principals. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, then analyzed using both descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that industrial attachment remains the most common form of collaboration, followed by workshops, seminars, and limited research partnerships. However, the effectiveness of these collaborations was rated low, with 65.9% of trainees and 67.2% of trainers indicating that current industry linkages were not effective. The main challenges included resource constraints, technological gaps, limited time for industry engagement, and inconsistent support for securing attachments. Principals further highlighted systemic barriers such as understaffing, inadequate funding, and logistical difficulties that undermine institutional capacity to sustain quality training amid rising enrolment. The study concludes that while industry attachments dominate collaboration efforts, they are insufficient to address the growing skill demands under increased enrolment. Strengthening partnerships through dual training models, co-designed curricula, shared training facilities, and structured mentorship is necessary to enhance training quality. The study recommends greater government support in aligning enrolments with institutional capacity, expanded industry participation in training, and investment in modern facilities to ensure TVET graduates are adequately prepared for the labour market.