Trends in Programmes and Enrolment Patterns in Technical and Vocational Education and Training in East Africa

Abstract

This study explored the trends in developing programmes and enrolment s in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) across East Africa, specifically within the transportation, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors. The study used a positivism research philosophy and a quantitative approach. Furthermore, the study used a research design from which data were collected from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania in 9 institutions among 17 regional flagship institutions, implementing the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP). The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings reveal that, the trends in enrolment varied from one institution to another, and from one specific sector to another (from one specific programme to another). In the transportation field, National Institute of Transport in Tanzania reported steady growth in enrolment s, which was linked to government investments in infrastructure. Conversely, Kombocha TVET Polytechnic in Ethiopia noted a decline in enrolment s, despite expansion in its programmes. In the manufacturing sector, Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology-Mwanza Campus developed programmes consistently, but enrolment number varied. The renewable energy sector in Arusha Technical College experienced the most volatility in enrolment s. The study concludes that, the trends in enrolment varied from one institution to another, and from one specific sector to another (from one specific programme to another). This advocates for the studied institutions to strengthen collaboration with industries, perform regular labour market assessments, enhancing institutional capacity, and increasing public-private partnerships. These measures will in turn ensure the relevance and sustainability of TVET programmes in East Africa’s growing sector.