By Kadiatu A Turay
Unemployment remains one of the biggest socio-economic challenges facing many nations today, particularly in developing countries where youth unemployment rates are alarmingly high. A significant number of graduates struggle to secure jobs due to a mismatch between their academic qualifications and the demands of the labor market. However, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is increasingly being recognized as a viable solution to this problem. By equipping individuals with practical skills, TVET not only reduces unemployment but also fosters entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Bridging the Skills Gap.
One of the main reasons for high unemployment rates is the gap between academic education and industry requirements. Many young people graduate from universities with theoretical knowledge but lack practical skills that employers seek. TVET programs provide hands-on training in various fields, including construction, information technology, mechanics, agriculture, and healthcare, ensuring that trainees acquire the competencies needed in the workforce.
According to Dr. Ahmed Sesay, an education consultant, “Technical and vocational training aligns directly with market demands. Unlike conventional university education, which often produces graduates with limited job opportunities, TVET programs focus on employability and self-reliance.”
Enhancing Employability and Job Creation.
TVET plays a critical role in making individuals job-ready. Industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, and energy require skilled workers, and vocational training institutions produce graduates who can seamlessly integrate into these sectors. Many multinational companies and local businesses prefer hiring graduates from technical institutions because of their practical expertise.
Additionally, vocational training equips individuals with entrepreneurial skills, allowing them to start their own businesses rather than relying solely on employment opportunities. This is particularly important in economies where formal jobs are scarce. By producing more self-employed individuals, TVET reduces dependency on government jobs and fosters economic sustainability.
Madam Patricia Kamara, a business development expert, supports this view: “Technical and vocational graduates are more likely to become entrepreneurs because they learn problem-solving skills and technical know-how. Instead of waiting for jobs, they create them, which benefits the economy as a whole.”
TVET and Economic Growth.
The benefits of vocational training go beyond individual employment; they extend to national economic growth. Countries with strong technical education systems tend to have lower unemployment rates and higher economic productivity. Germany and South Korea, for example, have heavily invested in vocational training, resulting in highly skilled labor forces that drive industrial innovation.
In Sierra Leone, efforts to promote vocational training are beginning to yield results. The government, in collaboration with international partners, has launched various skills development initiatives aimed at empowering young people with marketable skills. The Sierra Leone Skills Development Project (SLSDP), supported by the World Bank, is one such initiative aimed at modernizing technical training institutions.
According to the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Professor Alpha Tejan Wurie, “Investing in technical and vocational training is not just about reducing unemployment; it’s about building a skilled workforce that can transform our economy. If we want sustainable development, we must prioritize skills-based education.”
The Role of Private Sector and NGOs.
While governments play a crucial role in advancing vocational education, private sector involvement is equally important. Many companies are now partnering with training institutions to provide internships and apprenticeships, bridging the gap between education and employment. These partnerships ensure that graduates are work-ready and have industry experience before entering the labor market.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also play a key role in promoting TVET by offering free or subsidized training programs, particularly for marginalized communities. Organizations such as Plan International and UNICEF have been actively supporting skills training programs for women and youth in underprivileged areas.
John Conteh, director of a youth empowerment NGO, highlights this importance: “Many young people lack the resources to access formal education, but vocational training offers them a second chance. With skills in areas like carpentry, tailoring, and welding, they can become financially independent and improve their living standards.”
Overcoming Challenges in TVET Implementation.
Despite its many advantages, TVET faces several challenges that hinder its full potential. One major issue is the perception that vocational training is inferior to university education. Many parents and students still prioritize academic degrees over technical skills, leading to under-enrolment in TVET institutions.
Another challenge is the lack of funding and modern equipment in many vocational centers. Without adequate resources, training institutions struggle to provide high-quality education that meets industry standards.
To address these challenges, stakeholders must work together to promote the importance of TVET. Awareness campaigns can help change societal attitudes, while increased government investment can improve infrastructure and access to modern training tools.
A Call for Action.
For TVET to reach its full potential in reducing unemployment, a multi-stakeholder approach is required. Governments must prioritize vocational education in national development plans, the private sector should actively invest in skills development, and civil society organizations must continue advocating for inclusive and accessible training programs.
As economist Dr. Mariama Jalloh puts it, “The future of work is skills-based. Countries that invest in technical and vocational education today will have a competitive advantage in the global economy tomorrow. It is time we shift our focus from degrees to skills.”
In conclusion, technical and vocational training is a crucial tool in tackling unemployment. By equipping individuals with practical skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and boosting economic productivity, TVET has the power to transform lives and economies. With greater support and investment, vocational education can pave the way for a more prosperous and self-reliant society.