Best short courses for form four leavers in Kenya

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Finishing Form Four is a major milestone, but not everyone can or wants to join university immediately. Many young people are now turning to short courses as a quicker, more practical way to enter the job market. Whether you scored a C+, D, or even an E in your KCSE, there are many certified programs that can give you valuable skills. This guide highlights the best short courses for Form Four leavers in Kenya — focusing on affordability, job-readiness, and real-life opportunities.

If you’re looking to start earning fast, become self-employed, or explore a passion, there’s a short course for you.

Why Short Courses Are a Smart Option

Short courses are ideal for students who want to:

• Learn practical, employable skills

• Start working quickly

• Avoid expensive long-term college programs

• Explore career options before committing to a degree

• Qualify for government or NGO support programs

Many of these courses are available in TVET colleges, youth polytechnics, online platforms, and private institutions across Kenya.

Best Short Courses for Form Four Leavers in Kenya

Here is a list of top short courses that offer strong employment or self-employment potential:

1. Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy

This is one of the most popular short courses for youth, especially young women.

Course Duration: 3 to 6 months
Career Options: Salonist, barber, makeup artist, nail technician
Institutions: Vera Beauty College, Ashley’s, TVETs like Kabete Polytechnic
Certification: NITA, KNEC, or institution-based

2. ICT and Computer Packages

ICT skills are essential in nearly every industry today.

Course Duration: 1 to 3 months
Skills Taught: MS Office, Internet basics, typing, email, printing
Add-ons: Graphic design, basic coding, data entry
Institutions: NIBS, eMobilis, TVETs, Ajira Digital centers
Certification: Institution-based or NITA/ICDL (for international recognition)

3. Electrical Installation

A high-demand trade that offers strong income potential.

Course Duration: 3 to 12 months (Artisan or Craft level)
Career Options: Wiring technician, solar installer, electrician
Institutions: Don Bosco, Nairobi Technical, Rift Valley Institute
Certification: NITA, TVET-CDACC, KNEC

4. Motor Vehicle Mechanics

With the growing number of cars in Kenya, mechanics are always needed.

Course Duration: 6 to 12 months
Skills: Engine repair, vehicle diagnostics, servicing
Institutions: Mombasa Technical, NYS centers, private garages
Certification: NITA or KNEC Artisan Grade

5. Fashion Design and Tailoring

Great for youth who are creative or want to become entrepreneurs.

Course Duration: 3 to 6 months
Skills: Sewing, dressmaking, cutting, pattern making
Institutions: TVETs, Zetech University, Vera Beauty College
Certification: NITA, KNEC

6. Plumbing

This practical trade is in high demand in construction and maintenance.

Course Duration: 3 to 12 months
Work Areas: Residential plumbing, water systems, fittings
Institutions: Kenya Water Institute (KEWI), National Polytechnics
Certification: NITA, KNEC, or TVET-CDACC

7. Digital Marketing

This is ideal for youth who want to earn online or promote businesses.

Course Duration: 1 to 3 months
Skills: Social media marketing, content creation, SEO, email marketing
Institutions: Ajira Digital, eMobilis, Google Africa training
Certification: Google Digital Skills, institution-based

8. Catering and Hospitality

Perfect for those interested in hotels, events, or food businesses.

Course Duration: 3 to 6 months
Skills: Food production, table setting, customer service
Institutions: Kenya Utalii College, TVET institutions, private colleges
Certification: KNEC, NITA, or internal

9. Welding and Fabrication

An in-demand skill in the construction, manufacturing, and Jua Kali sector.

Course Duration: 3 to 6 months
Skills: Metal cutting, joining, fabrication
Institutions: Technical colleges, NYS, KYEOP partners
Certification: NITA (Trade Test Grades III–I)

10. Transcription and Freelance Skills

A great option for youth with good English and typing skills.

Course Duration: 2 weeks to 1 month
Skills: Transcribing audio to text, typing, grammar, time-stamping
Institutions: Ajira Digital, Work Online Kenya, Teachable academies
Certification: Institution-based, practice tests from Rev/GoTranscript

How to Access Short Course Training in Kenya

• TVET Colleges: Offer government-subsidized artisan and craft training

• Ajira Digital: Offers free online and digital skill programs

• KYEOP: Provides free vocational training and business grants

• County Governments: Many counties fund short courses for youth

• Private Institutions: May offer faster but paid training

Requirements to Join Short Courses

Most short courses in Kenya require:

• KCSE Certificate (any grade, even E or D)

• ID or Birth Certificate

• Passport photo

• In some cases, a basic interview or registration fee

Tip: Artisan-level courses accept KCPE or D– and below, while craft courses need at least a D plain or D+.

Tips for Choosing the Best Short Course

• Follow your passion: Choose what you enjoy or are good at

• Consider job demand: Some skills pay more or are easier to monetize

• Look at training quality: Choose recognized institutions or trainers

• Think about cost and location: Start with what is affordable and near you

• Plan your next step: Some short courses can be upgraded to diplomas later

Final Thoughts

There are many short courses for Form Four leavers in Kenya that can help you build a career, earn money, or even start a business. These courses offer fast, flexible, and affordable ways to gain skills and move forward in life. Whether you want to work with your hands, go digital, or become your own boss, the opportunity is available — you just need to take the first step.

Tip: Visit your local TVET, check out Ajira Digital, or talk to a youth officer in your area to explore the options available.

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