Insider perspectives on systematic provision of quality technical vocational education and training in Zimbabwean tertiary institutions

Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is defined as an educational process that focuses on the acquisition of practical skills, and an understanding of technologies and related sciences necessary for employment in a particular occupation or trade. The implementation of TVET is on the premise that students develop the requisite skills necessary to increase their employability and for the development of the economy through entrepreneurship. The study sought to ascertain the challenges and proffered strategies of attaining TVET programmes in Zimbabwean tertiary institutions. A qualitative approach was used, and a case study design employed. Two research questions guided the study. The data collection instruments were interviews, document analysis and focus group discussions. The participants were selected through purposive sampling. The study revealed the following challenges: lack of TVET training facilities, poor teaching methods, poor funding, deplorable facilities, and routine assessment of students' competencies. The following strategies were proffered: deliberate continual professional development of TVET lecturers, provision of adequate training facilities, and mobilisation of the requisite financial resources. It was recommended that central government, policymakers, and all TVET providers should deliberately focus on strengthening quality assurance in all the TVET tertiary institutions.