Evaluation of the competence gap between South African vocational-orientated agricultural education and training (Agricultural Diploma) and agricultural industry requirements

Abstract

The study was prompted by the current unemployment of agricultural diploma graduates and the negative perception of the agricultural diploma programmes. The study aimed to determine the gap between the agricultural industry and higher education institutions, as well as to identify the competencies the agricultural industry requires from the diploma graduates. The triangular study involved the agricultural industry, higher education institutions that offer agricultural diplomas and diploma graduates. The study investigated the perceived gap between the competence of the agricultural diploma graduates, the competencies required by the agricultural industry and the measures required to close such a gap and transform Vocational-Orientated Agricultural Education. The study used questionnaires and semi-structured interviews according to the mixed-methods approach in order to triangulate the data and determine the extent of the gap and the competencies required. The overall and most prominent shortcoming identified was the lack of practical experience, which subsequently needs to be addressed by the higher education institutions. Soft skills or 21st century competencies were ranked, using the mean rating values, in order of preference and also the production and technical competencies. Production and technical competencies would be best evaluated if they are commodity-orientated. The agricultural diploma is by nature a vocational-orientated programme and attention is given to the pedagogy and assessment of Vocational-Orientated Agricultural Education to understand and promote the transformation of the diploma programmes. The research indicates clearly that there is a demand for more practical experience and a greater emphasis on the relevant competence, and that the employability of the graduates is affected by their lack of practical experience. The study highlighted the need for a clear understanding of Vocational-Orientated Agricultural Education by all role players, as well as the necessity to develop and implement vocational-orientated pedagogy in the teaching of the diploma programmes and suggest a model for Vocational-Orientated Agricultural Education. The results of the study showed a need of closer collaboration between higher education institutions that offer agricultural diploma programmes as well as collaboration between the agricultural industry and the higher education institutions in order to determine commodity-based competence. The transformation of Vocational-Orientated Agricultural Education is of critical importance for the employment of graduates and to promote food security. The transformation of Vocational-Orientated Agricultural Education is central to the regaining of relevance of higher education institutions.