Why TVET plays second fiddle to higher education
Changing perceptions
The myth that vocational training is inferior needs to be challenged.
Despite its many advantages, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) often takes a backseat to traditional higher education in terms of public perception and popularity. This imbalance can be traced back to several factors, but there are concrete steps we can take to raise the profile of TVET and ensure it receives the recognition it deserves.One of the primary reasons TVET is less popular is societal perception. For many years, there has been a belief that higher education is the only path to success, while vocational training is seen as a secondary option. This stigma is often rooted in the assumption that a university degree guarantees a higher-paying job, more prestige, and better career prospects. However, in reality, TVET graduates frequently secure well-paying, stable jobs in industries that are vital to the economy, such as manufacturing, construction, hospitality and healthcare. The myth that vocational training is inferior needs to be challenged.
Another factor contributing to TVET’s lower popularity is the lack of awareness about the opportunities it provides. Many young people and their families are simply unaware of the wide range of career paths TVET can lead to. For example, TVET offers direct entry into high-demand sectors such as information technology, renewable energy, and other skilled trades, where there is often a shortage of qualified workers. By promoting these opportunities more effectively, we can help shift public perception.
How to change perceptions
So, how can we fix this imbalance? First, more needs to be done to communicate the benefits of TVET to students, parents, and employers. Educational campaigns that showcase successful TVET graduates and the industries they work in can help demonstrate the value of vocational training. Second, governments and institutions like the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) must continue to support TVET by providing funding for apprenticeships, work-integrated learning (WIL), and other programmes that connect learners directly with employers.
Lastly, businesses have a role to play in breaking the stigma by actively engaging in TVET initiatives. When companies highlight the success of their employees who have completed vocational training, they set a positive example for others to follow.
Associations such as the Association for TVET Institutions in Namibia (ATVETIN) also play a vital role in enhancing the image of TVET in Namibia. By changing how we view and promote TVET, we can ensure that it becomes a first-choice option for many aspiring professionals.