Finland President Alexander Stubb has commended Kenya’s efforts in advancing technical and vocational
education through the Dual Training programme, describing it as a
transformative model that equips young people with practical, market-ready skills.
During a visit to two dual training sites in Nairobi, President Stubb, accompanied by First Lady Suzanne Innes-Stubb, engaged with students at Nairobi National Polytechnic, where they demonstrated their competencies in automotive mechanics and hospitality.
The students shared how the
programme has prepared them to transition from school to the job market.
“It is truly encouraging to witness
Kenya embracing this model that places young people at the heart of innovation,
industry, and opportunity,” said President Stubb.
“Finland implements a similar model through
our Universities of Applied Sciences, and we are proud to partner with Kenya in
this journey.”
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius
Migos Ogamba thanked Finland for its ongoing partnership, noting the model’s
impact in aligning education with labour market demands.
“This partnership is helping us
equip young Kenyans with practical, industry-ready skills,” Ogamba stated.
President Stubb later toured Caetano
Kenya, one of the more than 1,500 companies supporting the Dual Training
programme.
He observed trainees gaining hands-on
experience and contributing to daily operations.
The Dual Training initiative,
implemented by Kenya’s State Department for TVET since 2019, combines classroom
instruction with structured workplace training. It is supported through a joint
€15 million financing package from the governments of Finland (€8 million) and
Germany.
The programme aims to tackle youth
unemployment by ensuring skills development is industry-driven.
It also focuses on integrating green skills,
digital tools, and inclusive practices, including support for women and persons
with disabilities.
Over 5,000 students are currently
enrolled in 93 training areas across 65 national TVET institutions.
The programme’s policy framework was
officially adopted by the Cabinet in January 2025.
President Stubb’s visit forms part
of a three-day state visit to Kenya, marking 60 years of diplomatic relations
between the two nations.
The trip underscores Finland’s
commitment to enhancing education and employment outcomes for Kenyan youth.
