Recent Government Announcement
In late February 2026, Kenya's Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba announced plans to review and reduce fees at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions nationwide, including Tivet Colleges. Speaking at the commissioning of a new academic block at Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, Ogamba highlighted high fees as a key barrier causing student dropouts. He directed a ministry team to begin the review process immediately, targeting reductions similar to the 15-40% cuts implemented in public universities last year.
This move aligns with the government's ambition to enroll 2 million youths in TVET programs by 2027. Ogamba noted that students had directly raised fee concerns during his visit, prompting swift action. A dedicated meeting was scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, to finalize the downward adjustments, ensuring no learner is disenfranchised by costs.
Why the Fee Reduction Matters for Tivet Students
Tivet Colleges, part of Kenya's TVET network, offer practical courses in trades like plumbing, electrical work, welding, hairdressing, and ICT—vital for youth employability. However, recent reports indicated rising fees contributed to dropout rates, with some institutions charging up to KSh 22,400 per term for diploma programs in engineering and applied sciences.
Prior to this announcement, TVET fees varied: artisan courses (Level 4) averaged KSh 19,400 per term (tuition KSh 8,000 + admin fees), while diplomas reached KSh 22,400. Boarding added KSh 46,970 optionally. The new reductions aim to make these accessible, especially for students with KCSE grades C, D, or E, via the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).
Ogamba emphasized that learning would continue seamlessly, mirroring university reforms where HELB loans increased from Sh36 billion to Sh41 billion, supporting over 237,000 TVET students. For Tivet learners in Nairobi and beyond, this could mean 15-40% savings, easing family burdens amid economic pressures.
Implementation Timeline and Process
The review kicked off days after Ogamba's February 24 speech, with the ministry team tasked to propose revised structures. Public universities updated portals by September 1 last year; TVET institutions may follow suit for 2026/2027 intake. KUCCPS has already released TVET admission guidelines, positioning reduced fees as a booster.
Students can expect:
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Fee Caps: Likely aligned with student-centered funding, prioritizing need-based support.
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Loan Enhancements: HELB disbursements starting mid-year, covering first-year and continuing Tivet students.
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No Disruptions: Institutions urged to maintain operations during transitions.
Tivet-specific updates may appear on college websites or TVET Authority portals soon. Nairobi County institutions, serving urban youth like those in your professional networks, stand to benefit most from quick rollout.
Benefits for Students and Economy
Lower fees address dropout risks, retaining talent in high-demand sectors. TVET graduates fill gaps in construction, manufacturing, and services—key for Kenya's Vision 2030. Reduced costs could double enrollment, creating a skilled workforce for industries like facility management and ICT, relevant to content creators tracking these trends.
For parents and sponsors, affordability means less reliance on informal loans. Eco-friendly trades (e.g., green plumbing) align with sustainable development, while women in beauty therapy gain equal access.
Challenges and What Lies Ahead
Critics note uneven past implementations—some TVETs raised fees despite capitation delays. Parliament is debating KUCCPS reforms for medical training, signaling broader TVET scrutiny. Ogamba must ensure equitable cuts across 47 counties.
Stakeholders urge transparency: publish new fee schedules by March 2026, integrate with HELB apps, and monitor compliance.
How Students Can Prepare
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Apply Early: Monitor KUCCPS for 2026 placements.
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Check Loans: Apply via HELB portal before August 31.
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Contact Tivet: Visit college sites for localized updates.
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Advocate: Join student forums to track progress.
This fee reduction marks a pivotal step toward inclusive education. As details emerge, Tivet Colleges will transform more lives, powering Kenya's growth. Stay tuned for official schedules—affordable skills training is closer than ever.
