An evaluation of the effectiveness of TVET programmes in reducing unemployment: A case study of Windhoek Vocational Training Centre graduates

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes in addressing unemployment among graduates of the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre (WVTC) in Namibia. The research examines the factors contributing to unemployment among TVET graduates, assesses the relevance of TVET curriculum in equipping graduates with industry-required skills, and explores strategies to enhance the impact of these programmes. A qualitative research methodology was employed, using purposive sampling to select 15 participants, including WVTC graduates, trainers, industry representatives, and curriculum developers. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically to explore challenges in TVET training, graduate employability, and industry expectations. The study findings show that despite the fact that TVET programmes equip one with necessary technical skills, there is a considerable gap between the competencies gained and the needs of the labor market. The problems facing the graduates include lack of on-job experience, lack of soft skills, and high curriculum outdatedness over time with the industry trends. Unemployment is also aggravated by economic limitations and lack of job opportunities. The stakeholders in the industry also stressed the necessity to have better TVET industry partnership to enhance practical exposure to curricular ensure that the curricula is represented at the industry. Another key aspect noted by the trainers and curriculum developers was the need to incorporate emerging technologies, enhance training in soft skills and increase the volume of apprenticeship to equip better graduates to work. The findings indicate that although TVET programmes at WVTC provide essential technical skills, they remain only partly effective in reducing unemployment. Skill mismatches limited practical exposure, weak soft skills, and outdated curricula reduce graduate employability, while broader economic constraints worsen the situation. This underscores the need for stronger TVET-industry collaboration and updated training approaches. To address these gaps, the study recommends strengthening industry partnerships, expanding practical learning, and revising curricula to include modern technologies and soft skills. Greater government support in infrastructure development, job placement funding, and widening access for marginalized groups is also essential to enhance the impact of TVET and better prepare graduates for the labor market.