THE FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ACQUISITION OF VOCATIONAL SKILLS IN TECHNICAL SKILLS IN VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRES IN TANA RIVER COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Vocational education is integral to human development since it provides young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce. This aim of the study was to investigate the factors leading to the acquisition of technical skills among trainees in the vocational training centres in Tana River County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to investigate the perception of trainees towards skills acquisition, to find out satisfaction level among trainees towards vocational training and skills acquisition, determine the availability of the physical facilities and resources for skills acquisition in vocational training centres, to investigate the extent of the instructor’s competence in teaching towards skill acquisition in vocational training centres in Tana River County. The study, based on the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), explored how self-efficacy and expected training outcomes influence motivation and persistence in skill acquisition. A descriptive research methodology, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative techniques, was employed. The target population included 9 institutions in Tana River County, with 322 respondents: 250 trainees, 54 trainers, 9 heads and 9 deputies of the vocational training centres. Trainees and trainers were selected randomly, while principals were purposively selected. Data was collected using questionnaires for trainees and trainers, and interviews for principals. Reliability was assessed through a pilot study and test-retest techniques. Quantitative data was coded and analysed using SPSS version 26, with results presented in tables and frequencies. Trainees viewed vocational skills as inferior to academic education, with 72.5% dissatisfied with their courses, and many commented on the adequacy of workshops, tools, and resources. Physical facilities were deemed inadequate by 71% of respondents, with differing opinions between trainers and administrators. The shortage of qualified trainers, noted by 74.9% of trainees, affected training quality. Recommendations included in-service training programs and hiring highly qualified trainers, with further studies suggested on community perspectives on vocational education for youth. The study recommended that the County Government of Tana River should implement in-service training programs for trainers. Furthermore, the County Government needed to emphasize recruiting and retaining highly qualified trainers. For suggestions for further study, the County Government of Tana River could find stakeholders' views about the need for vocational education for youth.