Kisumu Central MP Joshua Odongo Oron wants Kenyans who acquire knowledge and skills out of formal education to be allowed to apply for formal certificates in an effort to boost the Juakali sector.
Oron presented the Technical & Vocational Education and Training Bill, 2023, before the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee on Friday, October 6.
According to the MP, the bill enables informal learners with valuable skills to acquire a nationally recognized Prior Learning (PL) certificate in the TVET sub-sector.
Should the House accept that recommendation, Kenyans in the Jua Kali sector will compete favourably in the job market and boost the country's revenue.
MPs also proposed amending the Industrial Training Act in order to provide a system and structure for assessing and certifying individuals who have acquired skills through informal training.
The Technical & Vocational Education and Training Bill, 2023 was among the legislative proposals the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee wants approved as they do not require funding from the Treasury.
"We are considering Bills that won't put pressure on the exchequer. The simpler it is, the better," said Teso South MP Mary Emaase.
Members of the Budget Committee maintained that Bills set to generate revenue for the country would also be prioritised.
Juakali, loosely translated to “hot sun”, refers to a thriving artisan sector in Kenya and offers a productive means of promoting self-employment.
The sector has minimal entry requirements compared to many formal jobs. It values curiosity and skills acquired through on-the-job training.
Major skills found in this sector are craftsmanship, bead decorations, vehicle repair, furniture making, shoe repair, metallic boxes and kitchen items, designing and repairing clothes, and pottery, among others.
According to a study report by Statista.com, the informal sector employed 15.96 million Kenyans by the end of 2022, representing 83% of the country's total population.
