We are thrilled to announce that the 2026 WFCP World Congress will be hosted by the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA). The Congress will be held at the prestigious Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya from November 23 – 28, 2026.

Why KICC?

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre is not only a landmark venue in Africa but also globally recognized for hosting high-profile international conferences and summits. Its central location in Nairobi, a major hub in Africa, provides easy accessibility for delegates from around the world. Additionally, Nairobi’s vibrant culture and rapidly growing status as a regional leader in innovation and education make it an ideal backdrop for the exchange of ideas and knowledge that the WFCP World Congress fosters.

What to Expect?

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: KICC offers modern, state-of-the-art facilities that can accommodate large numbers of participants, ensuring a memorable and impactful event.
• Global Visibility: Hosting the congress at KICC will significantly enhance the visibility of WFCP’s mission and objectives, not just within Africa, but on a global scale.
• Cultural Experience: Nairobi’s vibrant culture and innovation scene will provide a rich and engaging experience for all attendees.

About the Host Association: ATUPA

The Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA) was established in 1978, following a resolution of the 7th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers held in Ghana. ATUPA’s mandate is to support professional and skills development and to promote policy advocacy in favor of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Headquartered in Nairobi under a diplomatic agreement with the Government of Kenya, ATUPA has grown to be a rallying point for educational institutions focused on technical and vocational education. In 2015, the organization was renamed the ‘Commonwealth Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa’ to reflect the inclusiveness of its members. In August 2019, it rebranded back to ATUPA, embracing a broader mandate to strengthen TVET providers’ knowledge base in Africa through research and development.

ATUPA’s vision is to be an influential voice and driver of initiatives in Africa for technical education and skills development. Its mission includes promoting curriculum development, capacity building, policy analysis, and applied research for economic growth. With a membership of 225 institutions across over 20 countries, ATUPA is committed to transforming TVET institutions into centers for innovation and knowledge transfer, contributing to the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Congress Theme and Objectives

The theme of the 2026 WFCP World Congress draws participants to work toward improved practices and always considers the role WFCP members can play toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The specific objectives include:

1. Facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration among TVET institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore innovative ideas and approaches for skills development in the context of the rapidly changing technological landscape.
2. Showcasing success stories and best practices from TVET institutions and organizations around the world, highlighting how innovation and technology have been successfully integrated into skills development programs, leading to improved outcomes for learners and communities.
3. Fostering partnerships and cross-sector collaborations between TVET institutions, industry stakeholders, and technology providers, with the aim of leveraging the power of innovation and technology to address the current and future skills gaps and challenges in various industries.
4. Providing a platform for discussion and debate on policy and regulatory frameworks that can support and encourage the integration of innovation and technology into TVET programs, ensuring relevance, sustainability, and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
5. Encouraging research and development, including the exploration of emerging technologies, pedagogical approaches, and assessment methods, that can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of TVET programs, equipping learners with the skills and competencies needed for successful and meaningful careers in the digital age.
6. Promoting inclusive and equitable access to quality TVET programs, with a particular focus on underserved populations, by examining and advocating for innovative approaches that leverage technology to overcome barriers and ensure that no one is left behind in the rapid progress towards the future of skills development.
7. Fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within TVET institutions, encouraging the development of start-up incubators, maker spaces, and other innovation hubs that provide learners with hands-on experience and opportunities to apply their skills in real-world projects and solutions.
8. Exploring the role of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics in the future of TVET, including how these technologies can be harnessed to improve teaching and learning, personalize instruction, and align skills development with labor market demands.
9. Discussing and identifying strategies for upskilling and reskilling the existing workforce, considering the rapid pace of technological change and the need for lifelong learning to remain competitive in the global marketplace.
10. Promoting networking and collaboration among WFCP members, encouraging them to share resources, experiences, and knowledge in order to collectively contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to quality education and decent work for all.

Join Us!

We look forward to welcoming you to Nairobi in 2026 for an unforgettable WFCP World Congress. Stay tuned for more updates and details!