CBET in Kenya: what it means for TVET trainers
Updated 31 Oct 2026
Short answer
CBET (Competency-Based Education and Training) is how Kenyan TVET is taught and assessed: trainees are judged on what they can do against set performance criteria, not on time spent in class. Every unit of competency lists elements and performance criteria, and a trainee is either Competent or Not Yet Competent.
The building blocks of a CBET curriculum
- Unit of competency — one job skill, with a code and a duration in hours.
- Elements / learning outcomes — the parts of that skill.
- Performance criteria (PCs) — what a trainee must show to be judged competent.
- Range and required knowledge — the conditions and theory behind each outcome.
Who does what
- TVET CDACC develops CBET curricula and assesses and certifies competence.
- TVETA licenses and quality-assures TVET institutions.
- KNQF (Kenya National Qualifications Framework) sets the levels; most TVET units sit at Levels 3 to 6.
What a CBET trainer prepares for each unit
That is a lot of paperwork per unit. It all comes from the same curriculum, which is why it can be generated from it.
- A Learning Plan (the week-by-week scheme of work).
- A Course Outline for the head of department.
- Session Plans for every session.
- Formative assessments with marking schemes and observation checklists.
- Learner notes / a learning guide.
Make it with InteligentCMS
- Create a free account at inteligentcms.co.ke.
- Upload the unit's CBET curriculum (Word or PDF) or type its learning outcomes.
- Check the outcomes it found, then generate.
- Download editable Word files branded with your college and unit code.
Questions trainers ask
What does CBET stand for?
Competency-Based Education and Training. Trainees are assessed against performance criteria and judged Competent or Not Yet Competent.
What is the difference between CBET and the old system?
The old system graded on exams and time served. CBET assesses what a trainee can actually do, outcome by outcome, using practical evidence as well as written work.
Who sets CBET curricula in Kenya?
TVET CDACC develops CBET curricula and assesses and certifies competence. Institutions are licensed by TVETA.
Can I get CBET documents for any unit?
Yes. InteligentCMS works from the unit curriculum you upload, so it covers any CBET unit at KNQF Levels 3 to 6.