After an extended period of virtual meetings, discussions, and initial implementation, the Promoting Opportunities for Workforce Excellence in Renewable Energy Vocational Education and Training (POWER-VET) project team convened at Strathmore University for a two-day in-person workshop from 6th to 7th May 2026.

This workshop provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen human connection and foster face-to-face engagement, enabling deeper, more focused discussions on the project’s various work packages. The meeting brings together eight partner institutions, namely,  Strathmore University through Strathmore Energy Research Centre, Eastlands College of Technology, Machakos University, Technical and Vocational Education and Training Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council (TVET CDACC), Citiscope Training Institute, from Kenya and Olympiaki Ekpaideutiki (OTC), University of West Attica from Greece and Readlab Brussels BV from Belgium.

The POWER-VET project, launched in January 2025 as a three-year initiative, aims to strengthen vocational education and training (VET) in Kenya by equipping trainers with essential skills in renewable energy and energy efficiency in the four main areas. Solar energy, wind energy, energy storage and micro grids enabled through digitization, Internet of Things (IOT), and other digital tools.

The project aims to strengthen the capacity of VET institutions, fostering a skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s green and digital transition. The project employs a multi-faceted approach to professional development in the VET sector. It emphasizes flexibility, hands-on learning, industry collaboration, and continuous capacity building to ensure relevance to labor market needs.

The methodology includes case study development based on identified needs in the Kenyan TVET institutions and was validated by industry players. After validation, Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs), Open Educational Resources (OERs) will be developed to bridge the existing gaps in the TVET sector in Kenya. This will be followed by capacity building prioritizing mentoring, twinning for international collaboration, and practical Training of Trainers (ToTs) workshops, ensuring a comprehensive and adaptable training framework for VET educators.

POWER-VET’s structure fosters personal development, practical application of knowledge, and international cooperation among VET professionals. It aligns educational efforts with market demands, bridging the skills gap in renewable energy technologies, digital skills, and sustainable practices. By equipping trainers with advanced teaching methodologies and technical competencies, POWER-VET contributes to the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s VET sector and supports its transition towards a greener economy.

The workshop outcomes included alignment in the implementation strategy, discussion and clarification on the various work packages to ensure smooth delivery of projects over the next thirty months.

The team had an opportunity to tour the Strathmore University Engineering and solar labs, charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and the solar photovoltaic installation in the University.

The POWER VET project is led by Prof. Izael da Silva, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Strathmore University.

Article is written by Anne Njeri, Communications Officer, Strathmore Energy Research Centre.