Quality assurance practices as drivers for technical - vocational education and training’s transformation in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This paper scrutinizes the role of quality assurance practices in driving the transformation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Zimbabwe, focusing on the opportunities and challenges. The paper is grounded in a systematic review approach, which provides a holistic view of the issue under investigation. In this regard, the PRISMA 2020 checklist ensured transparency and consistency in selecting the 65 papers from databases (Scopus, DOAJ, DHTE, Web of Science, Scielo SA, and IBSS). This paper articulates how implementing quality assurance practices can enhance the effectiveness, relevance, and credibility of TVET programmes. The strides made by the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development in regulating TVET through curricula development, accreditation, and assessment mechanisms are also highlighted. Additionally, this paper identifies the challenges such as resource limitations, the need for continuous professional development, and the alignment of TVET outputs with labour market demands. It can be concluded that quality assurance practices are essential drivers for the transformation of TVET in Zimbabwe. Thus, by embracing opportunities for improvement and leveraging best practices, Zimbabwe can create a robust TVET programme capable of producing competent human capital ready to meet the needs of the evolving industry landscape.