Step-by-step guide to getting an artisan certificate in Kenya

NB: IF YOU WISH TO DOWNLOAD THESE NOTES PLEASE CONTACT US VIA EMAIL {ADMIN@EDUNOTES.CO.KE} OR USE THE COMMENT SECTION. UPLOAD NOTES TO THE WEBSITE

With the growing focus on hands-on skills and practical training, the artisan certificate has become one of the most valuable qualifications for Kenyan youth looking to build a career. Whether you’re interested in plumbing, electrical installation, welding, masonry, or beauty therapy, this step-by-step guide to getting an artisan certificate in Kenya will help you start your journey the right way.

Artisan training equips learners with essential technical skills to work, start a business, or progress to higher levels of education. It is ideal for students who didn’t qualify for direct diploma or certificate courses but are passionate about mastering a trade.

Main Keyword: artisan certificate in Kenya

Related Keywords:

• how to get artisan certificate in Kenya

• artisan courses in Kenya

• TVET artisan qualifications

• NITA artisan exams

• entry requirements for artisan training

• accredited artisan institutions Kenya

Why Choose an Artisan Certificate in Kenya?

The artisan certificate is a practical qualification offered through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. It is ideal for school leavers, job seekers, and even adults who want to learn a skill and become self-reliant.

Benefits of pursuing an artisan course:

• Takes a shorter time to complete (usually 6 months to 1 year)

• Affordable and often supported by government subsidies

• Available in nearly every county through local TVETs

• Prepares students for direct employment or self-employment

• Offers a pathway to craft certificate and diploma level

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an Artisan Certificate in Kenya

1. Choose a Trade Area That Matches Your Interest

First, identify a skill or trade that you are passionate about or interested in.

Popular artisan courses include:

• Electrical Installation

• Plumbing

• Welding and Fabrication

• Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy

• Masonry

• Motor Vehicle Mechanics

• Fashion Design and Garment Making

• Food and Beverage Production

2. Meet the Entry Requirements

Artisan programs are open to a wide range of learners.

Basic entry requirements:

• KCPE or KCSE certificate (no minimum grade required)

• Must be at least 15 years old (in most institutions)

• Some schools may admit adult learners without formal education based on assessment

Tip: Artisan training is ideal for students who scored a D plain or below in KCSE.

3. Select an Accredited Training Institution

You must study at a government-approved TVET institution registered by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA).

Where to study:

• Public TVETs and Vocational Training Centres (VTCs)

• NITA Training Centres

• Youth Polytechnics across counties

• Accredited private technical colleges

Examples of institutions:

• Kabete National Polytechnic

• Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC)

• PC Kinyanjui Technical College

• NITA Athi River, Mombasa, Kisumu

• Local Youth Empowerment Centres

4. Apply for the Course

Once you’ve chosen your course and school, the next step is applying.

What you’ll need:

• Copies of KCPE/KCSE results

• Copy of National ID or Birth Certificate

• 2 passport photos

• Application form (from the school or online)

• Registration or admission fee

Tip: Some institutions allow walk-in applications during open intakes.

5. Start Your Training Program

Training usually takes between 6 months to 1 year, depending on the trade and curriculum.

What you’ll learn:

• Practical skills for your chosen trade

• Basic theory and safety guidelines

• Life skills and entrepreneurship training

• Communication and customer service

Assessment: Continuous internal assessments and final national exams.

6. Sit for a National Exam (NITA or TVET-CDACC)

Upon completing your course, you’ll be required to take a national trade test.

Examination bodies:

• NITA (National Industrial Training Authority) – Offers Grade III, II, and I certification

• TVET-CDACC – Offers Competency-Based Assessment and certification

• KNEC – Some artisan courses are examined by Kenya National Examinations Council

Tip: You must register early for exams and meet attendance and practical training requirements.

7. Receive Your Artisan Certificate

If you pass the exams, you’ll be awarded an artisan certificate in your trade area. This qualifies you to seek employment or pursue further training.

What you can do next:

• Get employed as a technician or assistant in your field

• Start a small business (e.g. plumbing, hair salon, welding shop)

• Progress to Craft Certificate (Level 5), then Diploma (Level 6)

• Apply for licensing if required (e.g. for electricians or plumbers)

Cost of Artisan Training in Kenya

Artisan programs are affordable and often subsidized by the government.

Additional costs may include: tools, uniforms, books, and exam fees

Funding Options:

• HELB TVET Loans and Bursaries

• County Youth Empowerment Funds

• Ministry of Education Capitation Support

• NGO and CDF Scholarships

Final Thoughts

Getting an artisan certificate in Kenya is a powerful step toward financial independence, job readiness, and long-term career growth. Whether you want to work, run a business, or climb the technical training ladder, artisan training offers a strong foundation.

Tip: Visit your nearest accredited TVET or VTC today, ask about available artisan courses, and take the first step toward a hands-on and fulfilling career.

WE ARE DOING THE MOST FOR YOU, PLEASE LEAVE US THE NOTES YOU ALREADY HAVE BY UPLOADING TO THE WEBSITE . THIS WAY YOUR FRIENDS FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS WILL GET. UPLOAD ALL NOTES HERE