Influence of lecturer absenteeism on technical and vocational education and training students’ academic performance in Limpopo Province

Abstract

Since 1998, South Africa has seen substantial expansion in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). In this sector, education and training were targeted at empowering South African youth. Policies have been developed and implemented to manage the absenteeism of lecturers but absenteeism seems to be increasing. The purpose of the study was to study the influence of lecturer absenteeism on TVET college students’ academic performance in Limpopo province. A qualitative approach was used and a case study method was applied in an attempt to meet the purpose of this study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and observations. In this study semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 students, 4 lecturers and 4 education specialists. Data were analyzed using thematic data analysis method. The findings demonstrated that college-related issues, personal issues and lecturer-related issues contribute to lecturer absenteeism. Poor management and supervision were also found to be contributing factors to lecturer absenteeism. It was also discovered that lecturer absenteeism has an influence on student dropout, syllabus completion, lecturer substitution and college pass rate. This study recommended that the TVET College should implement disciplinary measures, high motivation and access system to ensure that lecturers follow policies and avoid absenteeism without notice/valid reason.