To make TVET a perfect tool for national development, several key aspects need to be addressed and enhanced.

These include curriculum development, infrastructure and facilities, industry collaboration, quality assurance and public perception.

To align TVET with national development goals, it is crucial to develop a dynamic and industry-relevant curriculum.

The curriculum should focus on emerging technologies, current industry practices, and market demands.

Regular consultations with employers, industry experts and relevant stakeholders are essential to ensure that the curriculum remains up-to-date and responsive to changing skill requirements.

Infrastructure, facilities

TVET institutions need to have modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities to provide hands-on training to students.

Adequate investment in workshops, laboratories and equipment is necessary to simulate real-world working environments.

This allows students to gain practical experience and develop the necessary technical skills required by industries.

trong collaboration between TVET institutions and industries is crucial to ensuring that the training provided is relevant and meets industry needs.

Establishing partnerships, such as apprenticeship programmes and industry attachments, enables students to gain practical experience and develop a deeper understanding of the industry's requirements.

Industry representatives can also contribute to curriculum development, ensuring that the skills taught are aligned with industry standards.

Quality assurance

A robust quality assurance system is essential to maintaining the credibility and effectiveness of TVET programmes.

Accreditation bodies should be established to ensure that TVET institutions meet the required standards.

Regular monitoring and evaluation of programmes, instructors and facilities should be conducted to maintain quality and make necessary improvements. 

Public perception

Addressing the public perception of TVET is important to attract more students and create a positive perception of vocational education.

TVET should be promoted as a viable and respected career pathway, on par with traditional academic routes.

Raising awareness about the potential for employment and career progression through TVET can help change societal attitudes towards technical and vocational education.

Encouraging research and innovation within the TVET sector can lead to the development of new technologies, methodologies and best practices.

Research should focus on identifying emerging skill gaps, analysing industry trends, and exploring innovative teaching and learning approaches.

TVET institutions should collaborate with research organisations, businesses and government agencies to foster an environment of innovation and continuous improvement.

Continuous professional development

To ensure that TVET instructors possess the necessary knowledge and skills, continuous professional development programmes should be provided.

Instructors should be equipped with the latest industry practices, teaching methods and technological advancements.

Training programmes, workshops and seminars should be organised regularly to upgrade the skills of instructors and keep them abreast of current trends.

By addressing these key aspects, TVET can become a perfect tool for national development.

It will produce a skilled workforce that meets industry demands, drives innovation and contributes to economic growth.

writer is a teacher/
construction engineer.