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1 March 2016 Higher Forestry Education in Kenya: Bridging the Gap between Educational Training and Job Market Competencies
S. Ramcilovic-Suominen, Y. Puentes Rodriguez, B. Kirongo, S. Pitkänen
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Abstract

In this paper the higher forestry education at the University of Eldoret (UOE) in Kenya is evaluated and its responsiveness to demands and expectations in the job market discussed. A survey among forestry stakeholders in Kenya was carried out and the results were discussed at a stakeholder workshop. The results show a significant discrepancy between offered postgraduate training at the UOE and the skills and competencies desired by employers. The biggest gaps were found in generic job-related skills and emerging issues related to forests and forestry. The postgraduate curriculum is found to have a strong science and theory base, but a poor emphasis on practical training and skills related to information and communication technology (ICT) and business skills. Paradoxically, these same skills were identified as fundamentally important in the job market. Possible ways to bridge the gap between job market and forestry education in Kenya are suggested.

S. Ramcilovic-Suominen, Y. Puentes Rodriguez, B. Kirongo, and S. Pitkänen "Higher Forestry Education in Kenya: Bridging the Gap between Educational Training and Job Market Competencies," International Forestry Review 18(1), 56-67, (1 March 2016). https://doi.org/10.1505/146554816818206096
Published: 1 March 2016
KEYWORDS
competencies
curriculum development
employability
forestry education
Kenya
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