Teachers holding Primary Teacher Education (P1) and Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) certificates now have a golden opportunity to upgrade their qualifications to diploma level. This follows the announcement by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) that it has opened applications for the Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (DPTE) programme.
The move is part of a broader government initiative aimed at improving teacher qualifications and enhancing the quality of education in Kenya. According to KUCCPS, eligible teachers must possess either a P1 or ECDE certificate to qualify for the upgrade programme.
“Here’s a chance to upgrade your qualification to Diploma level. Apply for placement to Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (DPTE) through KUCCPS,” read a statement from the placement service issued on Thursday.
Applications are currently open through the dedicated portal teachersupgrade.kuccps.ac.ke, and the programme is set to begin in August 2025. Interested teachers have been urged to apply immediately and not miss this important opportunity to enhance their teaching credentials.
The teacher upgrade programme comes shortly after KUCCPS reopened its application portal for students seeking placement into Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions for the September 2025 intake. This intake targets KCSE certificate holders from 2000 to 2024.
KUCCPS also outlined entry requirements for various levels of TVET programmes. Artisan Certificate courses (Level 4) require a minimum grade of E in KCSE, Craft Certificate courses (Level 5) require at least a D, while Diploma courses (Level 6) require a minimum of C- (minus).
To make the process more inclusive, KUCCPS has waived all application fees for this intake, removing a significant financial barrier for many prospective students.
All TVET applications are to be submitted via the KUCCPS Students’ Portal at students.kuccps.net, with detailed guidelines available on www.kuccps.ac.ke.
Established under the Universities Act No. 42 of 2012, KUCCPS coordinates the placement of Government-sponsored students into universities and colleges across the country.
