- A new framework could change how Kenyans prepare for jobs abroad
- Workers would be expected to gain knowledge beyond their job-specific skills
- Experienced workers could have another pathway to formal certification
The Industrial Training Bill, 2026 could introduce mandatory pre-departure training for Kenyans seeking work abroad, NITA has told Parliament.
The proposals emerged on September 24, 2026, when the Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers Committee of the National Assembly engaged the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) on the proposed legislation.
Leading the discussion, the Committee chairperson, who is the Taita Taveta County MP, met NITA Managing Director Dr Rukia Atikiya and her delegation.
NITA told the committee that the Bill seeks to replace the Industrial Training Act, 1959, which has undergone numerous amendments, with a comprehensive legal framework governing industrial training, skills development, assessment, certification, quality assurance and administration of the training levy.
A key focus of the discussions was the proposed framework for preparing migrant workers before they leave the country.
Under the Bill, pre-departure programmes would equip workers with job-specific skills, information on workers’ rights, laws and working conditions in destination countries, workplace safety, financial literacy and psychosocial preparedness.
NITA or registered and accredited providers would offer the training. Workers who successfully complete the programmes would receive certificates and be entered into a national register.
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Additionally, NITA would coordinate skills verification for labour migration in collaboration with relevant government agencies, a move intended to strengthen the recognition of workers’ qualifications before they take up employment abroad.
The proposed law further provides for Recognition of Prior Learning, allowing experienced workers to have skills acquired through employment assessed and certified without undergoing training in areas where they are already competent.
Meanwhile, the Bill also proposes tighter safeguards in skills assessment and certification through published standards, accredited assessment centres, independent verification and digital records.
Workers would also have avenues to appeal assessment decisions under the proposed framework.
According to NITA, the engagement was part of consultations ahead of consideration of the Bill by its Board and subsequent submission through the relevant government processes.
The Authority also sought the committee’s views on the proposed policy direction, particularly provisions governing migrant workers, pre-departure training programmes and related fees.
By Mosoti Mogambi
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