Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba presided over the inaugural graduation ceremony of Ol’Lessos National Polytechnic in Nandi County on January 30, 2025. His presence highlighted the growing importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in shaping Kenya’s workforce.
For decades, the dream of many KCSE candidates under the 8-4-4 system was to score a university entry grade and eventually graduate with a degree, which was seen as the ticket to prestigious job opportunities. However, since the 2016 KCSE results when the cut-off grade for university entry was lowered to C+, diploma and TVET courses have gained renewed significance.
Interestingly, new research reveals that some employers in Kenya now prefer diploma graduates over degree holders, especially in technical and mid-level positions.
Employers Choosing Skills Over Titles
Dr. Luchetu Likaka, Senior Research Manager at Fral Development Consultants, told The Kenya Times that the preference is largely due to the practical skills diploma graduates bring to the table.
“This is driven by the hands-on training diploma programs offer, their better alignment with industry needs, and their lower salary expectations,” Dr. Likaka explained.
He further noted that diploma holders are often seen as more adaptable, work-ready, and less entitled compared to degree graduates.
Pride vs. Work Ethic
Ann Wamonje, an award-winning HR consultant and trainer, supported Dr. Likaka’s sentiments. According to her, some degree holders portray unnecessary pride, which can put off employers.
“People with degrees sometimes show a lot of pride that’s unnecessary, and that’s why some employers will go for diploma guys rather than degree people,” she said.
University Education Mismatch
Beyond attitude, Dr. Likaka pointed out that the mismatch between university curricula and the demands of the labour market continues to frustrate employers.
He emphasized that most diploma programs are skills-oriented, equipping learners with practical competencies directly applicable in the job market. On the other hand, degree programs often focus heavily on theory and remain misaligned with the evolving needs of the economy.
“This disconnect has contributed to a workforce that is less responsive to the dynamic demands of modern society, highlighting the need to re-evaluate higher education curricula,” he said.
Diploma Holders More Committed to Jobs
Wamonje also observed that diploma graduates often demonstrate more determination to keep their jobs compared to degree holders.
“A diploma holder has a lot to prove to themselves compared to a degree holder, and that’s why when a diploma holder gets a job, they will hold on to it and keep it,” she added.
Employers Still Set Minimum Requirements
However, not everyone agrees with this growing narrative. Dr. Rebecca Wambua, Chairperson of the Distance, Open and eLearning Practitioners Association of Kenya (DOLPAK), dismissed the claims, arguing that serious employers always set clear minimum requirements for positions.
“I doubt if they can advertise for a position requiring a graduate but prefer a diploma holder. However, I have heard of such a perception,” Dr. Wambua said.
