Understanding TVET and the future of skills development
Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is a cornerstone of economic growth, providing individuals with the practical skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced industries. But what exactly is TVET, and why should employers, employees, students and apprentices care?What is TVET?
TVET refers to education and training that equips learners with the technical skills required for specific trades, occupations and industries. It covers a broad spectrum, from vocational qualifications in areas like plumbing and carpentry to specialised training in sectors like manufacturing, IT, healthcare and hospitality. TVET programmes are typically competency-based, meaning that learners are assessed on their ability to perform tasks to industry standards, ensuring they are job-ready from day one.
What is higher education?
Unlike traditional higher education, which often emphasises theoretical knowledge, TVET focuses on the practical application of skills. While higher education can be valuable in fields requiring extensive research and analysis, TVET provides a more direct route to the workforce, with courses often designed in collaboration with industry. This alignment ensures that TVET graduates possess the exact skills needed by employers.
Benefits for Namibia
For Namibia, TVET represents a critical pathway toward economic resilience. With many sectors facing skills shortages, TVET offers a solution by rapidly equipping individuals with the competencies required in industries ranging from agriculture to renewable energy. Programmes like apprenticeships and work integrated learning (WIL), often funded by the Namibia Training Authority (NTA), allow businesses to train employees on the job, minimising skills gaps and improving productivity.
TVET also provides individuals with opportunities for lifelong learning. Employees can upskill or reskill to stay relevant in their careers, ensuring they remain competitive in a constantly evolving job market. For students and young people, TVET offers an affordable, accessible alternative to higher education, with many TVET graduates enjoying high employability rates due to the hands-on experience gained during training.
As industries continue to evolve, Namibia’s workforce must be prepared to meet the challenges of the future – and TVET is the vehicle that will drive us there.