Championing Lifelong Learning: University of Nairobi Hosts RPL Training Programme

The University of Nairobi in collaboration with the State Department for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), have made a significant move in promoting inclusive education and workforce development, through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Practitioner Level 2 Training Programme for the Association of Pentecostal Vocational Training Institutions of Kenya (APVOTIK) held from July 21 to July 25, 2025 at the University’s main campus.

The workshop focused on deepening the understanding of RPL and integrating its practices across diverse disciplines.

In the Vice-Chancellor’s speech, read by DVC, Research, Innovation and Enterprise,  Prof. Francis Mulaa, during the opening ceremony, highlighted the university’s dedication to shaping the future of education in meaningful ways that align with the demands of today’s world.

“The global workforce is rapidly changing, and there’s a growing need to equip our youth and adult learners with practical skills that open up real opportunities. As a university, we are committed to being a key player in implementing RPL in Kenya – not just by supporting it – but by building the expertise, systems and structures needed to deliver it effectively”.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), a global practice gaining traction locally, is a transformative strategy that validates the myriad ways individuals acquire skills and knowledge beyond traditional academic settings. RPL process involves identifying, assessing and certifying these competences against prescribed standards.

Prof. Ann Aseey, the lead trainer, stated that the program is a vital step in strengthening Kenya's national qualifications framework, bringing together participants from various institutions and sectors. The program is focused on equipping RPL practitioners with advanced skills in the assessment, counselling, and verification of prior learning, aligning with the standards set by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA).

Director, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Delivery Unit, Mr. Stanley Maindi, said RPL is a transformative initiative championed by the Kenyan government seeking to formally acknowledge and certify the knowledge, skills, and competencies individuals have acquired through informal, non-formal, and experiential learning, such as work experience, self-study, and community involvement. This is particularly crucial in a country where a significant portion of the workforce, especially in the informal sector, possesses valuable skills but lacks formal certification.

The intensive training programme featured key activities: lectures on RPL by certified experts, roleplays on creating RPL awareness and developing an assessment plan, exercise on RPL Management Information Systems.

The closing ceremony marked the beginning of a movement in transforming education in Kenya. Leaving empowered, the Christian ministry looks ahead to scale up RPL initiatives across various sectors. With a shared vision, the University of Nairobi alongside the Ministry of Education and State Department of TVET, aim to recognize and celebrate all forms of learning.