Kenya’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector is experiencing rapid growth, with a new performance rating study highlighting significant increase in student enrollment and institutional expansion.
The report, titled “Kenya TVET Performance Rating,” was conducted by Timely Kenya.
The survey gathered data between 1st and 7th October 2025 , with 4,018 respondents contributing to the findings, alongside data from the Ministry of Public Service and the TVET Authority (TVETA).
According to the report, the TVET sector is now enrolling more students than traditional universities, and there has been a notable surge in admission of female students.
Key figures from the report show, TVET institutions are enrolling three times more students compared to universities. National Polytechnics grew by 140% during the year under review, and female student enrollment rose by 18% compared to the 2023-2024 period.
The performance rating identified the top ten best performing National Polytechnics in Kenya.
The top five performing institutions are:
- The Eldoret National Polytechnic
- Kabete National Polytechnic
- The Nairobi National Polytechnic
- The Mawego National Polytechni
- Kenya Coast National Polytechnic
Rounding out the top ten are:
6.The Sigalagala National Polytechnic
7.The Nyeri National Polytechnic
8. Kisii National Polytechnic
9. Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic
10. The Ol’lessos National Polytechnic
The performance rating was guided by several key benchmarks and evaluation measures. These parameters included; student enrollment, courses offered, new infrastructure, community outreach and marketing.
Despite the impressive growth, the report highlighted several persistent challenges facing TVET institutions in Kenya, including outdated training equipment, as many institutions rely on obsolete tools that do not match current industry standards.
Limited financial resources affect infrastructure, equipment, and staff development. In addition, lack of qualified instructors limits the delivery of high-quality, competency-based training.
