Augmenting Enrolment through Integration of TVET and General Education

Abstract

Nepal has made a significant progress in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. However, the declining trend in student enrolment, which has led to even the closure of TVET institutions, poses questions over these achievements. The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST) has explained in detail the TVET problems and issues in its TVET Sector Analysis Report (TVET SAR) 20791, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Reform Strategic Plan (TRSP) 2079 and the TVET Sector Strategic Plan (TSSP) 2079. Avoiding repetition, this article focuses on the integration between TVET and general education, and of qualifications within the TVET system to facilitate its vertical expansion as a means to boost enrolment. It addresses issues such as social stigma and systemic disarray; explores policy efforts in the international practices; chronicles Nepal efforts; and examines challenges like policy-implementation gaps, rigid teaching methods, poor internal efficiency, and subpar employment outcomes. The paper concludes that Nepal must continue preparing competent and competitive TVET graduates for both domestic and international markets. Achieving this requires restructuring the education system, particularly through integration mechanisms. By taking references from the proven international models, Nepal can transform its TVET system into an attractive choice not only for Nepali students but also for international learners.