Well known for educating students to meet market demands, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has grown in popularity as more students pursue technical careers with hands-on skills and practical knowledge. These colleges provide a variety of vocational courses aimed at providing students with practical skills and information relevant to specific industries. Nonetheless, after months or even years of training, one may think, “what’s the demand for TVET graduates?”.
According to a report by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), “TVET has a central role in enabling individuals to find employment, advance in their careers, and contribute to sustainable development”. With expectations for technical sectors to grow in the coming years and the demand for TVET graduates to increase accordingly, there might be a positive outlook on employment. In this article, we’re examining the why, what and where TVET graduates are demanded.
With an awareness of local demands for skilled workers, the government has made significant efforts to promote TVET in the country. Some of the methods in place include introducing The Apprenticeship Levy (2017) – a tax on employers to fund apprenticeships, including TVET courses. Although one of the most heavily criticised policies, it has led to an increase in the number of apprenticeship starts, particularly in industries such as construction, engineering, and health. Yet, which sector is the most eager to hire these graduates? Of course, all TVET courses are equally relevant – but in an era where complex issues are persistently popping up left and right, some are arguably more sought after than others. What are they?
Skilled Workers: Where Are They Most Needed?
Creative and Digital
The creative and digital sectors as essential drivers of economic growth. From graphic design, video production, animation, software development, digital marketing, and more, they are competitive skills for graduates to have. The growth of digital technologies has profoundly impacted many businesses, increasing the need for qualified people.
TVET graduates in the creative and digital sectors have essential technical skills, such as the knowledge of how to use cutting-edge digital tools and technologies like computer-aided design (CAD) software, video editing software, 3D modelling software, and others. They also understand computer languages and can create software programmes and websites. As the marketing and IT industries continue to boom, it’s safe to say that they have options in the market when it comes to employment.
Engineering
Engineering is a vast field that includes civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering specialities. Because of their ability to solve problems and hands-on experience, graduates of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) are in high demand in the engineering business. They are also well-versed in safety procedures and laws, as well as the most recent tools and technology, such as SP3D. In many circumstances, TVET engineering graduates are also less expensive than university-educated engineers, due to the fact that TVET programmes are typically shorter and more focused on practical skills, allowing graduates to enter the labour field sooner.
Healthcare
Nursing, pharmacy, medical laboratory technology, radiography, and other specialities are all part of the healthcare sector. TVET healthcare graduates have excellent technical skills that are necessary for providing high-quality patient care. They are educated to use cutting-edge medical equipment and technologies, such as laboratory tools and diagnostic imaging equipment.
Medical laboratory technology is one field where TVET graduates are in high demand in healthcare. Medical laboratory technologists play an important role in disease diagnosis and therapy. They are in charge of running laboratory tests, evaluating the data, and reporting their findings to doctors. Medical laboratory technology TVET graduates have the technical skills and knowledge required to perform these jobs effectively and efficiently.
With an ageing population in the UK and an increasing need for competency in technology, TVET graduates from the healthcare industry can expect the need for their expertise to rise in the upcoming years.
Green Economy
The green economy is another area where TVET graduates are in high demand. In light of the UK government’s aim to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, capable graduates in renewable energy, sustainable construction, and other related disciplines are in high demand. TVET graduates with green technology skills will be well-positioned to capitalise on the expanding demand in these sectors.
It’s key to remember that the demand for TVET graduates is not limited to these industries alone. Many employers are looking for workers with practical skills and experience – attributes that TVET graduates from many industries can provide.
With all the good things The TVET industry has to offer its graduates – it is not without some difficulties. Oftentimes, there is a mismatch between the skills that TVET graduates possess and the talents that companies seek. Since TVET graduates struggle to find jobs that match their qualifications, this can lead to unemployment or underemployment for an extensive period. In response to this issue, the TVET sector is continually evolving, with new courses and programmes being established to suit the changing labour market demands. Many TVET providers, for example, are now providing courses in renewable energy, sustainable building, and other related subjects in response to the increased demand for trained workers in the green economy.
Another issue would be the stigma that frequently accompanies the TVET industry. When opposed to typical academic programmes, TVET courses are sometimes regarded as a “second choice” or “lower status” option. Even if students are interested in practical, hands-on learning, this may dissuade them from pursuing TVET courses. More has to be done to promote the value of TVET courses and the job options they give in order to fight this stigma. Raising awareness of the varied range of professions accessible to TVET graduates, as well as showcasing the success stories of people who have followed careers in the TVET business, are examples.
Nonetheless, TVET plays a crucial role in preparing students for employment and provides the tools students need to succeed in their chosen professions by delivering skills and information relevant to job market demands. Yet, the world of work is always changing, and TVET programmes must adapt and remain relevant to meet the changing demands of the labour market. Going forward, governments, companies, and educators must collaborate to ensure that TVET programmes continue to offer individuals the skills and knowledge required to thrive in today’s and tomorrow’s employment markets.
