Obstacles in Transmission and Acquisition of Employability Competencies under the Competency-Based Training in Tanzania

Abstract

This study sought to establish obstacles in transmission and acquisition of employability competencies under the competency-based training in Morogoro Region, Tanzania. The study used the qualitative exploratory research design to capture information from trainers and learners from selected VET institutions as well as employers and employees from civil construction companies where work-based training is conducted. The sample size included 22 trainers and 58 learners from three Vocational Training Centers. A semi-structured interview collected data from trainers and employers while a questionnaire collected data from learners and employees. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics and the thematic approach. The study concludes that learners’ academic background was a major obstacle to transmission of employability competencies as VET admitted learners with lower academic performance, thus it was difficulty for them to comprehend what was taught. Other critical obstacles included inadequate teaching and learning resources, language problem and shortage of trainers. Based on the conclusions, the study recommends that the government and VET stakeholders need to revisit learners’ entry criteria to enhance learners’ ability to comprehend what is taught. They also need to ensure that teaching and learning resources are available to enhance transmission and acquisition of employability competencies.