ALG has been commissioned by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) to conduct this significant study. Owing to our established presence and extensive experience in The Gambia, coupled with our international and local expertise, we successfully completed the assignment in collaboration with key stakeholders.

SCOPE  OF THE TVET TRACER STUDY

Overall, this study  aims to provide insights into the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the TVET sector, with a focus on enhancing the quality, relevance, and accessibility of training programs for individuals and communities across various socio-economic backgrounds. By assessing different types of institutions and programs, ALG can identify best practices and areas for intervention to foster inclusive and sustainable development through TVET.

In addition to assessing publicly funded TVET initiatives, this evaluation will also encompass private institutions and projects that sponsor students for TVET programs. These private entities play a crucial role in expanding access to vocational education and training, particularly for individuals who may not have access to public institutions or government-funded initiatives.

The evaluation of private institutions and sponsored projects will focus on several key areas:

• Program Quality and Relevance:
  • Assessing the quality and relevance of the TVET programs offered by private institutions, ensuring they meet industry standards and address current market needs.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of the curriculum in equipping students with practical skills and knowledge that are in demand in the job market.
• Sponsorship Models and Accessibility:
  • Examining the various sponsorship models employed by private institutions and projects to support students in accessing TVET education.
  • Assessing the impact of sponsorship on widening access to TVET training, particularly for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds or marginalised communities.
• Outcomes and Employability:
  • Analysing the outcomes of students sponsored by private institutions and projects, including their rates of completion, graduation, and subsequent employment.
  • Assessing the employability of graduates and their ability to secure relevant employment opportunities in their respective fields.
• Partnerships and Collaboration:
  • Exploring partnerships and collaborations between private institutions, industry stakeholders, and local communities to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of TVET programs.
  • Evaluating the role of private sector engagement in shaping curriculum development, providing internship opportunities, and facilitating job placements for TVET graduates.

By including private institutions and sponsored projects in the evaluation, we aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of the TVET landscape, identifying successful approaches, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. This will enable stakeholders to make informed decisions and investments to strengthen the overall quality, accessibility, and impact of TVET training programs in the region.

Having delineated the scope of evaluation for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, which encompasses a comprehensive assessment of various institutions and initiatives. ALG will now transition to the desk review phase. This phase will involve an in-depth analysis of existing literature, policies, and program documentation to provide a foundational understanding of TVET initiatives and their impact on employability, skill development, and economic empowerment in The Gambia.