Considering the time commitment and cost involved in studying all the way to the university level, more learners today are considering foregoing university and taking the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) route. The people actively considering TVET have come to this conclusion based on a number of benefits.
In this article, we look at the top 4 benefits of choosing TVET education.
TVET is cost-efficient
Most TVET institutions are known to be less expensive than attending a regular college or university. Since most vocational training programs can be completed in less than two years, in fact, many can train and get certified in under a year, the total cost of education is drastically reduced for the students.
Specialized, career-based programs
You may join a university in pursuit of a specific career but do not be surprised if, along the way, you are required to spend time, money, and effort on modules that may not necessarily impact your performance in your chosen field. Trade school on the other hand delivers unique, career-based programs that focus solely on practical skills. For example, when you graduate a welder, you know specifically which jobs you will be vying for; the same goes for electricians, plumbers, seamstresses etc.
You are taught by people who have applied the skills in the real world
One of the advantages of vocational training is that instructors are industry professionals. The opportunity to learn from an experienced professional in the field gives you access to authentic insights and real-world examples and it is a known fact that the best way to learn is by doing. In addition, classes are usually smaller with teachers providing individualized, hands-on instructions which boost chances of learning better.
Graduates join the workforce faster
In comparison to other avenues of higher learning, vocational job placement for graduates is generally high. Some specializations even have the potential to crack high-paying jobs from day one. An even bigger advantage is that most vocational skills are easily converted into full-fledged business entities that individuals can run on their own without needing to hunt for employment.
With job creation acknowledged as a global need by international entities like UNESCO, which estimates that at least 475 million new jobs need to be created over the next decade to absorb the 73 million currently unemployed youth population, as well as the influx of 40 million new entrants to the labour market per year.
Vocational programs provide a solution especially because most programs are directly linked to market needs. The choice to enroll in vocational training is therefore a smart choice.