Education CS Julius Ogamba during the inaugural graduation ceremony of the Ol’Lessos National Polytechnic in Nandi County on January 30, 2025. PHOTO/MoE.
Attaining the University entry grade in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) has always been the prize for many scholars in the 8-4-4 system.
While graduating with a degree was seen as a key to coveted job opportunities, diploma and TVET courses have gradually gained prominence after the 2016 KCSE results, when the cut-off points were reduced to C+.
However, it has now emerged that some employers prefer diploma graduates over degree holders.
Dr. Luchetu Likaka, Senior Research Manager at Fral Development Consultants, confirmed that there is a growing preference among employers for diploma graduates over degree holders in Kenya, especially for technical and mid-level roles.
Speaking to The Kenya Times, Dr. Likaka said the preference of diploma holders of graduates with degrees is driven by demand for a labour force with practical skills.
“This is driven by the practical, hands-on training diploma programs offer, better alignment with industry needs, and lower salary expectations,” Dr. Likaka said.
Additionally, he explained that diploma holders are often seen as more adaptable, work-ready, and less entitled than their degree-holding counterparts.
Ann Wamonje, an award-winning HR Consultant, practitioner, and trainer, echoed his sentiments.
She noted that some degree graduates exhibit unnecessary pride, which makes employers opt for diploma holders instead.
“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,” Wamonje said.
University Curricula Mismatch with Labour Market
But beyond pride, Dr.Likaka said the mismatch between some university curricula and labor market demands compounds the issue further.
For job seekers, he advises, the focus should shift from credentials to demonstrable skills and a strong work ethic.
He explained that most diploma programs are skills-oriented, equipping graduates with practical competencies directly applicable to the job market.
In contrast, Dr.Likaka said degree programs tend to be overly theoretical and are 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 the structure and relevance of higher education curricula,” Dr. Likaka said.
Diploma Graduates Go the Extra Mile to Keep Their Jobs
Further, Wamonje said diploma holders tend to hold onto their jobs more consistently compared to degree graduates.
She explained that they often work harder to prove themselves and maintain their positions.
“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.
However, Dr. Rebecca Wambua, Chairperson, Distance, Open and eLearning, Practitioner Association of Kenya (DOLPAK) dismissed these reports.
Wambua said serious employers always have minimum requirements for each position and stick to them.
“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.
