In partnership with the National Government through Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), we are proud to have sponsored the skills certifications for 78 clients, with 24 of them having graduated on March 22nd, 2024

Refugees bring a wealth of experience and skills in various fields, though many lack the documents to prove their qualifications. The journey to asylum often involves long treks and hurried escapes, leading many to leave their certificates behind. While some arrive with their skills intact but without documentation, most refugees find themselves unable to obtain work permits for formal or informal sector jobs due to unrecognized skills, resulting in underpayment for their services. With the high cost of vocational training fees and the struggle to meet basic needs, the opportunity for formal training often feels out of reach for many.  

Kenya's new Refugee Act, under Article 28(5), recognizes their right to work once their qualifications are acknowledged by competent authorities in Kenya. As part of our mandate to deliver livelihood interventions for urban refugees and vulnerable host residents to achieve economic self-reliance and in alignment with the Refugee Act 2021, we’re thrilled to announce the graduation ceremony for the first cohort of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) graduates under the Economic recovery and development sector; Re:BUiLD Program.  

The Re:BUiLD program actively advocates for the recognition of refugee educational certificates, which require accreditation from different examination bodies. Re:BUiLD identifies and supports clients with certifications obtained from their home countries for verification and recognition. The clients are then issued an equivalent certification recognized in Kenya.  

March 22, 2024, Nairobi. One of the RPL graduates receiving her certificate from the Deputy President of Kenya, Rigathi Gachagua at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre(KICC). (PHOTO: Edgar Otieno/TheIRC)

In partnership with the National Government through Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), we are proud to have sponsored the skills certifications for 78 clients, with 24 of them having graduated last Friday in a ceremony presided over by the Deputy President of Kenya. These graduates have attained certifications in a diverse array of skills, including teaching, tailoring, hairdressing, welding, and mechanics. 

“RPL has presented an opportunity for many refugees and asylum seekers to reap the benefits of formal recognition for their existing skills and knowledge without having to start from scratch. In addition, refugees enjoy inclusivity, enhanced confidence, and motivation as well as support lifelong learning beyond formal classrooms and acknowledge the value of experiential knowledge.” Explained Boniface, the economic recovery technical coordinator.  

March 22, 2024, Nairobi. IRC's Economic Recovery Technical Coordinator Boniface Odhiambo giving his speech at the RPL graduation ceremony at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre(KICC). (PHOTO: Edgar Otieno/TheIRC)

The transformative impact of RPL is poised to reverberate throughout the labor market, improving employability and fostering a demand for competencies aligned with a harmonized qualifications system. With governmental support, RPL promises to elevate social inclusion, embolden job seekers, and catalyze economic growth.  

As we strive for a quality-assured qualifications system benchmarked against global standards, we envision a future where the gap between skill demand and supply narrows, especially for refugees, propelling Kenya towards Vision 2030 and other development goals. Our mandate aligns with promoting lifelong learning and recognizing skills acquired through diverse channels, ensuring that no valuable expertise goes unrecognized or underutilized.

“RPL has been a ray of hope. As a young person, it's important to acknowledge our path, our challenges, and our resiliency rather than focusing only on credentials. As a refugee, I am confident in my abilities, my efforts are recognized, and my future is empowered. I feel seen, heard, and valued. This graduation is a step towards a brighter future.” Said Mirel, a graduate.

March 22, 2024, Nairobi. Mirel - an RPL graduate through Re:BUiLD poses for a photo at the RPL graduation ceremony at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre(KICC). (PHOTO: Edgar Otieno/TheIRC)

We remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering individuals, fostering inclusivity, and driving socio-economic progress through initiatives like RPL.