Butula Technical & Vocational College (BTVC) in Busia County stands as a beacon of skill-based education in Kenya, offering a diverse range of courses designed to empower students for the job market. As Kenya’s Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) system gains momentum, institutions like BTVC are pivotal in aligning technical and vocational education with industry needs. This comprehensive guide explores the full list of courses offered at Butula Technical & Vocational College for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, providing everything you need to know about programs, admission requirements, and career prospects.
Located in the heart of Butula Sub-County, BTVC is a public institution under the Ministry of Education, registered with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA). Since becoming fully operational in January 2023, it has grown to an enrollment of over 530 trainees, offering artisan, certificate, and diploma-level courses accredited by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and the Curriculum Development Assessment and Certification Council (CDACC). Whether you’re eyeing a career in automotive engineering, culinary arts, or beauty therapy, BTVC’s offerings cater to a wide spectrum of interests. Let’s dive into the details of this vibrant institution and its programs.
Why Choose Butula Technical & Vocational College?
BTVC stands out as a premier TVET institution in Busia County for several reasons:
- CBET Framework: Courses align with Kenya’s CBET system, emphasizing practical skills over theoretical knowledge.
- Industry Relevance: Programs are designed with input from employers, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
- Affordability: As a public college, fees are subsidized, and students can access Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funding.
- Accessibility: Flexible entry requirements (e.g., D plain for certificates, C- for diplomas) open doors to diverse learners.
- Modern Facilities: Mentored by Kisiwa Technical Training Institute, BTVC boasts upgraded infrastructure for hands-on training.
With Busia County’s growing economy—driven by agriculture, trade, and small-scale industries—BTVC’s courses are strategically positioned to meet local and national workforce demands.
Full List of Courses Offered at Butula Technical & Vocational College (2025/2026)
Below is the complete list of courses offered at Butula Technical & Vocational College for the 2025/2026 cycle, as approved by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) and the Ministry of Education. These programs span Levels 4 to 6 under the CBET framework, catering to artisan, certificate, and diploma qualifications.
1. Building Technician – Level 6 (CBET)
- Program Code: 5150705
- Duration: Approximately 2 years
- Description: Trains students in advanced construction techniques, including structural design, masonry, and project management.
- Career Prospects: Site supervisors, construction technicians, building inspectors.
2. Building Technician – Level 5 (CBET)
- Program Code: 5150773
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Focuses on intermediate skills in building construction, such as blueprint reading and material estimation.
- Career Prospects: Junior technicians, construction assistants.
3. Electrical Operation (Power Option) – Level 5
- Program Code: 5150842
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Covers electrical installations, power systems, and maintenance with a focus on power distribution.
- Career Prospects: Electricians, power plant operators, maintenance technicians.
4. Food Production (Culinary Arts) – Level 5
- Program Code: 5150872
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Equips learners with culinary skills, including food preparation, hygiene, and kitchen management.
- Career Prospects: Chefs, catering staff, food production supervisors.
5. Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation – Level 4 (CDACC)
- Program Code: 5150A41
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Description: Entry-level training in basic electrical wiring and installation techniques.
- Career Prospects: Assistant electricians, installation trainees.
6. Food and Beverage Service – Level 4
- Program Code: 5150A90
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Description: Focuses on service skills, customer care, and basic food handling in hospitality settings.
- Career Prospects: Waitstaff, baristas, service assistants.
7. Food and Beverage Production (Culinary Arts) – Level 6
- Program Code: 5150B96
- Duration: 2 years
- Description: Advanced culinary training, including menu planning, food costing, and gourmet cooking.
- Career Prospects: Head chefs, restaurant managers, culinary instructors.
8. Food and Beverage Sales and Service – Level 6
- Program Code: 5150E69
- Duration: 2 years
- Description: Combines service expertise with sales strategies, ideal for hospitality leadership roles.
- Career Prospects: Restaurant supervisors, sales managers, event coordinators.
9. Automotive Technician – Level 5
- Program Code: 5150F48
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Trains students in vehicle diagnostics, repair, and maintenance.
- Career Prospects: Auto mechanics, service technicians, garage assistants.
10. Automotive Engineering – Level 6
- Program Code: 5150F50
- Duration: 2 years
- Description: Advanced study of automotive systems, including engine design and electrical components.
- Career Prospects: Automotive engineers, fleet managers, technical trainers.
11. Fashion Design – Level 5
- Program Code: 5150F76
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Covers garment design, sewing techniques, and fashion trends.
- Career Prospects: Fashion designers, tailors, textile assistants.
12. Beauty Therapy – Level 5
- Program Code: 5150G29
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Teaches skills in skincare, makeup, and salon management.
- Career Prospects: Beauticians, salon owners, spa therapists.
13. Food and Beverage Service – Level 5
- Program Code: 5150G30
- Duration: 1-1.5 years
- Description: Intermediate training in hospitality service, focusing on efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Career Prospects: Senior waitstaff, hospitality trainers, service supervisors.
Admission Requirements for BTVC Courses
Entry requirements vary by course level, aligning with KUCCPS and TVETA standards:
- Level 4 (Artisan): KCSE D- (minus) or below, or completion of Grade 9 under CBC with relevant competencies.
- Level 5 (Certificate): KCSE D (plain) or Level 4 qualification.
- Level 6 (Diploma): KCSE C- (minus) or Level 5 qualification.
Additional Notes:
- No cutoff points are listed for 2022-2024, as BTVC’s recent operational status means historical data is unavailable. Placement is merit-based via KUCCPS.
- Special needs students are accommodated under TVETA’s inclusive policies.
How to Apply to Butula Technical & Vocational College
Applications for the 2025/2026 cycle are processed through the KUCCPS portal (www.kuccps.ac.ke). Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Visit KUCCPS: Log in or register on the student portal.
- Select Institution: Search for “Butula Technical & Vocational College” under Busia County.
- Choose Program: Enter the program code (e.g., 5150705 for Building Technician Level 6).
- Submit Application: Pay the KUCCPS fee (KSh 1,500 for first-time applicants, KSh 1,000 for revisions) via M-Pesa.
- Await Placement: Results are released within the KUCCPS application window (typically February-March 2025).
Alternative Route: Contact BTVC directly for institutional applications if KUCCPS deadlines lapse (P.O. Box details below).
Fees Structure and Funding Options
While exact fees vary by program, BTVC’s public status ensures affordability:
- Artisan (Level 4): KSh 20,000–30,000 per year.
- Certificate (Level 5): KSh 30,000–40,000 per year.
- Diploma (Level 6): KSh 40,000–50,000 per year.
Funding Support:
- HELB Loans: Available for diploma and certificate students (apply at www.helb.co.ke).
- County Bursaries: Busia County Government offers scholarships—check with local administration.
- NG-CDF: Constituency Development Funds may sponsor eligible students.
For precise fees, contact BTVC’s admissions office.
Career Opportunities After BTVC
Graduates from Butula Technical & Vocational College courses are well-positioned for Kenya’s job market:
- Construction: Building technicians thrive in Kenya’s booming real estate sector (e.g., affordable housing projects).
- Hospitality: Culinary arts and food service grads tap into tourism and hotel industries in Busia and beyond.
- Automotive: Technicians and engineers meet demand in transport and repair sectors.
- Fashion & Beauty: Designers and therapists cater to growing urban clientele and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Many graduates also opt for self-employment, leveraging skills to start businesses—a key CBET goal.
Campus Life at BTVC
Located in Bujumba Village, Marachi West Ward, BTVC offers a vibrant student experience:
- Facilities: Modern workshops, kitchens, salons, and ICT labs.
- Extracurriculars: Sports (e.g., volleyball), clubs, and skills competitions.
- Boarding: Affordable hostels for out-of-county students.
- Community: A close-knit environment fostered by 530+ trainees and dedicated staff.
Why BTVC Stands Out in Busia County
Compared to peers like Bunyala TVC or Bumbe TTI, BTVC excels due to:
- Diverse Offerings: 13 programs span technical, hospitality, and creative fields.
- Recent Growth: Operational since 2023, it reflects modern TVET standards.
- Strategic Location: Proximity to Butula Boys High School and rural-urban connectivity enhances accessibility.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Challenges:
- Infrastructure: Rapid enrollment growth strains facilities—expansion is underway.
- Awareness: Some rural students remain unaware of TVET benefits.
Future:
- BTVC aims to introduce Level 7 courses (advanced diplomas) by 2027, per TVETA’s roadmap.
- Partnerships with local industries could enhance internships and job placements.
The full list of courses offered at Butula Technical & Vocational College for 2025/2026 showcases a dynamic blend of technical, vocational, and creative training, making it a top choice in Busia County. From Building Technician Level 6 to Beauty Therapy Level 5, these programs equip students with skills for immediate employment or entrepreneurship. As Kenya’s TVET sector grows, BTVC’s affordable, industry-aligned education positions it as a leader in shaping the nation’s workforce. Apply via KUCCPS before the 2025 deadline, explore funding options, and kickstart your career at BTVC today.
