Top 10 vocational training schools in Africa

According to UNESCO, Young people aged 15-24 represent 20% of the African population but over 40% of those who are unemployed. Therefore, traditional education and formal education can’t be enough to empower everyone. There is a need to embrace vocational education.

Vocational education includes different programmes and courses designed to prepare individuals for specific careers or occupations. Unlike traditional academic education, which often focuses on theoretical knowledge, vocational education lay more emphasis on hands-on learning and practical skills’ development. Ever since the importance of vocational education has been established across Africa, vocational training schools have emerged as an essential institute for empowering individuals with practical skills. These schools are also tailored to meet the demands of the job market. Beyond equipping individuals with employable skills, vocational training schools also contribute towards increasing economic growth and social development across Africa. These schools are known for empowering youth with practical skills and knowledge needed to be gainfully employed. These institutions contribute to poverty alleviation, reduce unemployment, and increases entrepreneurship across Africa.

Vocational training schools are established across different countries in Africa. Here are some of Africa’s top vocational training schools.

1. Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), Kenya:
Founded in 1954, the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) stands as a beacon of excellence in vocational education and professional development in East Africa. With a rich legacy spanning over six decades, KIM offers a wide range of vocational courses, diploma programmes, and professional certifications in fields such as business management, project management, human resource management, and entrepreneurship. Through its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced educators, and industry partnerships, KIM prepares learners to excel in the dynamic and competitive global marketplace.

2. Technical University of Kenya (TUK), Kenya:
Formerly known as the Kenya Polytechnic University College, the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) is a leading institution of higher learning dedicated to technical and vocational education in Kenya. Established in 1961, TUK offers a diverse array of vocational programs, degree courses, and research opportunities in fields such as engineering, technology, architecture, and applied sciences. With a focus on hands-on learning, industry collaboration, and innovation, TUK equips graduates with the skills, competencies, and mindset needed to address complex challenges, drive economic growth, and contribute to nation-building in Kenya and beyond.

3. Yaba College of Technology:
Yaba College of Technology is in Lagos, Nigeria. This institution has a wide range of vocational courses. Yaba College of Technology popularly known as YABATECH is renowned for its excellence in fields like fashion design, photography, and multimedia technology.

4. Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) — Kenya:
TUM is renowned for its focus on technical and vocational education. The institution offering a wide range of programmes designed to meet the needs of Kenya’s rapidly evolving economy. From marine engineering to renewable energy, the university equips students with practical skills and knowledge that are in high demand across various industries. Through its strong industry partnerships and hands-on training approach, TUM prepares graduates to excel in their chosen fields and contribute to Kenya’s socio-economic development.

5. Lagos State Vocational Training and Skill Acquisition Centre:
As one of the leading vocational schools in Lagos, it offers various programs, including catering and event management, fashion design, and beauty therapy.

6. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) — South Africa:
CPUT stands out as a leader in vocational education and training in South Africa. With campuses located in Cape Town and other major cities, the university offers a wide range of vocational programmes, including engineering, business management, hospitality, and health sciences. CPUT’s emphasis on practical learning, as well as its strong industry connections, ensures that graduates are well-equipped to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

7. Moi University – Kenya:
Moi University’s School of Engineering and Technology is popularly known for its comprehensive vocational training programmes. From automotive engineering to information technology, the school offers diverse courses that cater to the needs of Kenya’s growing economy. Students in this school gain hands-on experience and valuable insights into their respective fields, preparing them for successful careers upon graduation.

8. West Africa Vocational Education (WAVE)
WAVE is a non-profit organisation located in Lagos Nigeria. This institution is dedicated to solving the problem of youth employment by teaching self-motivated young people employability skills & and also helping employers find the right talent for their business so that they can focus on growing it. WAVE aims to rewire the education to employment ecosystem and level the playing field for underserved African youth.

9. Africa Career Training School (ACTS) Ghana
Africa Career Training School-Ghana (ACTS-Ghana) is a private ICT education related institution empowering the youth through training. They deliver low-cost, high-value, hands-on skills training in the use of various computer software tools and program development to facilitate work.

10. Cape Coast Technical Institute.
This institute was founded by the Late Joseph Kadesh Abraham in 1955. It was originally called The College of Architecture and has undergone various change of names until in 1976 when the Ghana Government absorbed it into the public system and its current name, Cape Coast Technical Institute, was adopted. The school is known for providing students with knowledge, values, and competencies in technological skills and desirable qualities to fit in the world of work.