Suggest four strategies that the department of higher education and training can put into place to create more interest in trade and vocational professions

On this page, we help students to answer the following question: “Suggest four strategies that the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) can put into place to create more interest in trade and vocational professions.” This is a key topic for Life Orientation Grade 12, focusing on addressing unemployment and the transition to post-school destinations.

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Quick Answer

Strategies to Boost Trade Interests:

• Modernise TVET Facilities: Upgrade workshops with high-tech equipment to make trades feel “future-proof.”
• Increase Funding & Stipends: Provide larger bursaries and monthly stipends for students in “scarce skills” trades.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Use influencers and social media to rebrand trades as high-earning, “cool”occupations.
• Strengthen Industry Partnerships: Link every TVET college to a major company to guarantee job shadowing and internships.

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Strategies for the DHET to Promote Vocational Careers

In South Africa, there is often a social stigma that favours university degrees over vocational training. However, to combat unemployment, the DHET must make TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges a primary choice for career decision-making.

1. Rebranding and Public Awareness Campaigns

Many learners see trades as “dirty work” or a second-best option if they don’t meet university admission requirements.

• Strategy: The DHET should launch a massive “Decade of the Artisan” style campaign using digital media to highlight successful, wealthy artisans.
• Impact: This helps resolve intrapersonal conflict where learners feel ashamed to pursue a trade despite having the practical skills for it.

2. Modernisation of TVET College Infrastructure

To attract a “tech-savvy” generation, vocational training must move beyond basic hand tools.

• Strategy: Invest in Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies like 3D printing, robotics, and renewable energy labs.
• Impact: When colleges look like high-tech innovation hubs, they become more attractive to learners interested in modern career options.

3. Enhanced Financial Incentives and NSFAS Priority

Financial barriers are a major factor in planning for further studies.

• Strategy: The DHET could offer “full-ride” bursaries that include not only tuition but also high-quality toolkits and equipment that the student keeps upon graduation.
• Impact: This provides immediate financial independence and removes the stress and uncertainty of how to start a business post-graduation.

4. Direct “College-to-Industry” Pipelines

Learners are more likely to choose a path if they see a guaranteed job at the end of it.

• Strategy: Mandate that all TVET colleges form “Skills Circles” with local industries where students spend 30% of their time in actual workplaces.
• Impact: This allows for networking and builds a career portfolio that makes the transition to the workplace seamless.

Reference for Students:

• Subject: Life Orientation Grade 12
• Textbook: Focus Life Orientation Grade 12
• Chapter: Chapter 5: Careers and Career Choices
• Topic: Vocational and Trade pathways in South Africa.