Artisan vs Craft Certificate in ICT: What Is the Difference in Kenya?

Q: Can I upgrade from Artisan to Craft Certificate in ICT?

Yes. Students who complete the Artisan Certificate in ICT can upgrade to the Craft Certificate level at most TVET colleges. Some colleges offer bridging programs that allow credit transfer, reducing the time needed to complete the Craft Certificate.

Q: Which earns more — an Artisan or Craft Certificate holder in ICT?

Craft Certificate holders consistently earn more. Artisan-level ICT graduates typically earn KSh 15,000 to KSh 25,000 per month in entry-level positions. Craft Certificate holders typically earn KSh 25,000 to KSh 50,000 per month in ICT technician roles. The two-year investment in a Craft Certificate delivers significantly higher lifetime earnings.

Q: Is an Artisan Certificate in ICT worth it in Kenya?

Yes, particularly if you cannot qualify for the Craft Certificate level due to KCSE grades, or if you want a shorter, faster route to employment. It is a recognized qualification and a legitimate entry point into the ICT workforce, even if it limits your initial role options compared to the Craft Certificate.

Q: What comes after the Craft Certificate in ICT?

The natural progression is a Diploma in ICT (2 to 3 years), which opens doors to higher-level technician roles, IT officer positions, and further study toward a degree. Many employers use Craft Certificate as the entry qualification and support employees in upgrading to diploma level while working.

Q: Which institutions offer both Artisan and Craft Certificate in ICT in Kenya?

Most government polytechnics and many private TVET colleges offer both levels. Institutions include NTTI Nairobi, Kisumu Polytechnic, Coast Polytechnic, RVNP Nakuru, Eldoret National Polytechnic, and many county TVET colleges across Kenya.

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Many students in Kenya’s TVET system encounter the Artisan Certificate and the Craft Certificate in ICT and are unsure which to pursue or how they differ. These are two distinct qualification levels within Kenya’s TVET framework — understanding their differences helps you choose the right starting point for your ICT career goals.

Kenya’s TVET Qualification Framework

Kenya’s TVET system has a structured qualification ladder. From entry level to advanced, qualifications progress as: Artisan Certificate → Craft Certificate → Diploma → Higher Diploma. Each level builds on the previous one and opens additional career and further education options. Both the Artisan and Craft Certificate are examined by KNEC and recognized nationally.

What Is an Artisan Certificate in ICT?

The Artisan Certificate in ICT is an entry-level qualification typically taking 1 year to complete. It is designed for students who want foundational ICT skills and is often accessible to students with a KCPE certificate or equivalent. Content typically covers: basic computer operations, word processing and spreadsheets, basic hardware maintenance, internet and email use, and introductory networking concepts.

An Artisan Certificate qualifies you for entry-level technical support roles, computer operator positions, and provides a foundation for upgrading to the Craft Certificate level.

What Is a Craft Certificate in ICT?

The Craft Certificate in ICT is an intermediate qualification typically taking 2 years to complete. Entry usually requires a KCSE certificate (D+ or above, though requirements vary by institution). Content covers more advanced technical areas including: computer hardware assembly and repair, software installation and troubleshooting, network installation and configuration, database basics, web design fundamentals, and ICT project management basics.

A Craft Certificate qualifies you for ICT technician roles, network support positions, and is often the minimum requirement for government ICT department employment.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Factor	Artisan Certificate	Craft Certificate
Duration	1 year	2 years
Entry requirement	KCPE or equivalent	KCSE D+ or above
Examining body	KNEC	KNEC
Typical fees/yr	KSh 15,000–35,000	KSh 20,000–50,000
Career level	Entry level	Intermediate/technician

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Artisan Certificate if: you do not have a KCSE certificate, you want to enter the workforce quickly, or you want to build foundational skills before committing to a longer program.

Choose the Craft Certificate if: you have completed KCSE, you want a stronger qualification for formal employment, or you plan to work as a technical ICT support officer or network technician. The Craft Certificate gives you significantly more career options and higher starting salaries.

💡 Tip: If you qualify for the Craft Certificate, go straight to that level rather than doing the Artisan first. The Artisan is an alternative pathway for those who do not qualify for Craft, not a recommended precursor for those who do qualify.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade from Artisan to Craft Certificate in ICT?▼

Which earns more — an Artisan or Craft Certificate holder in ICT?▼

Is an Artisan Certificate in ICT worth it in Kenya?▼

What comes after the Craft Certificate in ICT?▼

Which institutions offer both Artisan and Craft Certificate in ICT in Kenya?▼

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Written by Theophilus Mburu

Theophilus Mburu is a dedicated dentist and a contributing writer at Edunotes, bringing a unique blend of scientific insight and creativity to the blog. Beyond the clinic, he enjoys immersing himself in video games and exploring music, adding a fresh and relatable perspective to his content.