Gendered labour market outcomes among South African technical and vocational education and training (TVET) completers

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14426/jovacet.v7i2.417

Abstract

South Africa’s post-school education and training (PSET) system plays an important role in addressing historical inequalities and preparing youth for the labour market. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges have seen rising female enrolment, including in traditionally male-dominated fields like Engineering. This study examines whether women’s increased participation in TVET programmes translates into equal labour market opportunities. Using administrative enrolment data and a tracer study of TVET completers, findings show that female completers face significantly higher unemployment rates than men, unrelated to the over-representation in Business Studies or services programmes. Additionally, women earn 22% less than men, even after accounting for study choices and qualification levels. While challenges remain in ensuring gender parity, the increasing presence of women in male-dominated fields signals progress. Efforts must focus on translating these gains into equitable employment outcomes. 

Author Biographies

Dr Tamaryn Jean Friderichs, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa

Tamaryn Friderichs is a senior lecturer at Rhodes University. She specialises in research on human capital, education, labour markets and inequality in South Africa. With expertise in quantitative data analysis, she has conducted research for government and non-governmental and international organisations, publishing widely on skills, training and labour market dynamics. 

Prof. Michael Rogan, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa

Michael Rogan, an associate professor based at the Neil Aggett Labour Studies Unit at Rhodes University, has over a decade of experience in post-secondary tracer studies and labour market research. He has led national research teams, published widely and consulted for large organisations in the education, skills and training sector. 

Dr Seamus Needham, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa

Seamus Needham, the director of the Institute for Post-School Studies at the University of the Western Cape, specialises in TVET (technical and vocational education and training) research, project management and academic planning. He led a five-year TVET research programme and conducted the largest graduate destination study of TVET graduates. 

Downloads

Published

16-12-2024

How to Cite

Friderichs, T. J., Rogan, M., & Needham, S. (2024). Gendered labour market outcomes among South African technical and vocational education and training (TVET) completers. Journal of Vocational, Adult and Continuing Education and Training, 7(2), 18. https://doi.org/10.14426/jovacet.v7i2.417

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 2 (2024): Journal of Vocational, Adult and Continuing Education and Training, Volume 7, Issue 2, 2024. Special Issue.

Section

Articles