Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) focuses on providing many students with practical skills and knowledge for a specific trade or vocation.
Most of the time, it is considered an alternative to traditional academic routes such as universities.
What TVETs do depends on the specific program and the needs of the students. Generally, the aim is to provide students with the skills and knowledge that they will need to succeed in their chosen career.
Also see: University placement shortage leaves thousands of matriculants in limbo
TVET education offers a hands-on, practical learning approach.
As reported by IOL, Sizakele Mphatsoe, head of education at Kagiso Trust said, “We see TVET as a game-changer because it immediately offers practical, cost-effective and empowering pathways which will lead to stable employment as well as financial independence.”
She further added that TVET programmes give students job-ready skills in much less time than university degrees.
Also see: How to prepare your child for first year in University
According to The Citizen, one of the huge benefits of studying at a TVET institution is its ability to help fill the skills gap in the current job market. Although some parents have shunned these institutions because supporting a child in a vocational trade was viewed as setting them up for an unsuccessful future, TVET colleges are advantageous. Since many of the programs are designed in collaboration with local employers, they are tailored to meet current specific needs.
As reported by SABC News, encouraging students to pursue TVET programs is essential because it equips them with in-demand skills and prepares them for the workforce after graduation, which helps close the unemployment gap.
IOL reported that Higher Education Department deputy director-general Sam Zungu said vocational training was experiencing a rebirth after years of debate and policymaking. “One of the challenges was that our programmes are not responsive, they are not relevant. Industry was complaining.”
“The shift is supported by investment in new TVET colleges, more online programmes and modules, investment in training of lecturers, and a ‘centres of specialisation’ model that offers industry-led training and promotes entrepreneurism.”
Also see: Careers in SA that don’t need university admission
Feature Image: Gettys
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!
