An Analysis of the Frameworks Used to Link TVET Institutions with Labour Market Skill – Requirements. A Case of Tanzania and Two Selected Asian Tiger Nations

Abstract

This study intended to: identify frameworks for linking TVET institutions with Labour Market skill-requirements; establish approaches for linking TVET institutions and their stakeholders from industries and informal sector; and assess the role of the linkage between TVET institutions and industries/informal sector in promoting technological skills. The study adopted mixed-methods research approach. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from the three selected countries. The study established that Industrial Practical Training is one of the critical frameworks for strengthening the linkages, as it provides important opportunities for teaching staff and learners to acquire practical knowledge and skills. While majority of respondents from Tanzania cited corporate activities, internships, traineeships and incubation as less effective linkage avenues, almost all respondents from the two Asian Tiger Nations found them more effective. The study recommends TVET institutions in Tanzania to enter into agreements and sign MoU with industries and SMEs prior to the commencement of each academic year. This will facilitate accommodation of placement of graduates in industries with the involvement of teachers/tutors the same way it has been carried out in the two selected Asian Tiger nations.