Exploring the implementation of cooperative training at technical and vocational education and training colleges in Oromia regional state, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted to explore the implementation of cooperative training in TVET colleges in Oromia regional state which involves TVET-enterprise partnerships. The study utilised a mixed-methods research design, employed a questionnaire, semi-structured interviews and observation to collect information from 247 participants. The participants include 80 instructors, 150 students selected to complete the questionnaire, five Vocational Counselling and Guidance Office Heads and two enterprise focal persons sampled for interviews and 10 students to participate in group interviews in three groups. Cooperative training in the region failed to consider the local context in that some parts of the region relied on small enterprises established in rural and small towns while other colleges worked with medium and large-scale enterprises. The rapport between TVET and enterprises was complicated and mired with factors related to communication, commitment, budget and involvement of stakeholders. Enterprises did not participate in the planning process, had very little knowledge of learning outcomes of a given programme and were not involved in the assessment of trainees. Enterprises were not compensated for their participation in cooperative training and were not given warranty if any kind of damage occurred during cooperative training. Thus, cooperative training was not supported by necessary budget and it failed to consider local contexts and did not seem it meet the needs of the learners.