Career progression after completing a craft in Kenya

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In Kenya, craft certificates are a popular route for students who want to gain hands-on skills and enter the job market quickly. Offered by TVET institutions across the country, these programs provide practical training in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, ICT, welding, and fashion design.

But what comes next? Many students and parents often ask: What is the career progression after completing a craft certificate in Kenya?

This guide explores the opportunities available for craft certificate holders — including employment, entrepreneurship, further education, and career growth.

What Is a Craft Certificate?

A craft certificate is a mid-level qualification in Kenya’s TVET system, typically awarded after completing a one to two-year program in a specific trade. It is a step above the artisan certificate and often leads to employment or further studies.

Common craft certificate programs include:

• Craft in Electrical Installation

• Craft in Plumbing

• Craft in Mechanical Engineering

• Craft in ICT

• Craft in Food and Beverage

• Craft in Hairdressing and Beauty

These courses are regulated by institutions like TVETA, KNEC, and NITA.

1. Employment Opportunities

After completing a craft certificate, many graduates find jobs in both the private and public sectors. Your training prepares you for technical and entry-level positions in your area of specialization.Examples of jobs:

• Electrical Technician

• Assistant Plumber

• ICT Support Technician

• Food Production Assistant

• Beauty Therapist

• Motor Vehicle Technician

Most employers, especially in the construction, hospitality, and manufacturing industries, value practical skills and are ready to hire TVET graduates.

2. Start Your Own Business

Craft certificate holders are also well-positioned to become self-employed. Many graduates open small businesses and become job creators in their communities.

Business ideas for craft-level graduates:

• Plumbing services

• Hair and beauty salon

• Welding and fabrication shop

• Tailoring or fashion design business

• Phone and computer repair

• Mobile catering services

You can get startup support from:

• Youth Fund or Uwezo Fund

• County enterprise funds

• SACCO loans or chama contributions

3. Progress to a Diploma Course

A craft certificate qualifies you to move to the next level — the diploma. Many students use their craft certificate as a stepping stone to gain deeper knowledge and higher qualifications.

Popular progression paths:

• Craft in ICT → Diploma in Information Technology

• Craft in Fashion Design → Diploma in Fashion and Apparel Design

• Craft in Electrical Engineering → Diploma in Electrical and Electronics

After a diploma, you may even qualify to join a technical university for a degree program.

4. Specialize with Short Professional Courses

You can also choose to upgrade your skills by taking short courses or certifications in a niche area within your field.

Examples:

• Solar installation for electricians

• Pastry and cake making for food production graduates

• Cybersecurity basics for ICT students

• Advanced skincare or makeup for beauticians

Short courses boost your income potential and make you more competitive in the job market.

5. Become a Trainer or Instructor (With Experience)

With time, experience, and further training, some craft certificate holders go on to become trainers at polytechnics or vocational centers.

Requirements to teach:

• A diploma in your field or higher

• Pedagogical training (e.g., Trainer of Trainers certificate)

• Experience working in your trade

Teaching offers a stable income and a chance to mentor the next generation of skilled workers.

6. Join Government and NGO Programs for Further Growth

Many government and NGO programs offer support to craft certificate graduates through internships, toolkits, and job placements.

Some key programs:

• KYEOP (Kenya Youth Employment and Opportunities Project)

• Ajira Digital Program

• Jitume Labs for Digital Training

• NITA industrial attachment programs

These platforms help you grow your experience and expand your network.

Real-Life Example

Samuel, a young man from Meru, completed a Craft Certificate in Plumbing. After working for a year with a local construction firm, he registered his own plumbing business. Using a county youth grant, he bought tools and hired two assistants. Today, he earns more than Ksh 50,000 a month and trains others in his community.

Final Thoughts

A craft certificate in Kenya opens up many doors. You can get a job, start your own business, upgrade to diploma level, or specialize further. With hard work, discipline, and creativity, your skill can grow into a rewarding long-term career.

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