Effect of technical and vocational education and training on youth self-employment in Rwanda: A case study of Rusizi District, Rwanda

Abstract

This study investigates the determining factors associated with Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) on youth self-employment in Rwanda, particularly focusing on the TVET program implemented by Rusizi district. This included detecting the enterprise typologies established by TVET graduates, assessing their contributions to the local labour market, and investigating whether there was any association between graduates of TVET and job creation. The theories used were Search-matching Theory, Human Capital Theory and Lifelong Learning Theory. The study employed a descriptive research design. Through descriptive statistical analysis, the study collected data from 72 self-employed youths out of a total target population of 258 that was derived using the Yamane formula. Information was gathered using a questionnaire and interview guide. The study results further show that TVET graduates are contributing significantly to job creation in the district. They do a range of entrepreneurial activities, from masons, vendors (caterers/event decorators), and poultry farmers, through production to sales, and mobile/computer repair. TVET graduates are job creators; they use skills in painting and decoration (95.5%), masonry (98.4%) and machinery operation. 95.5% Through in-demand skill development (95.5%), business startup (92.6%) and entrepreneurship promotion (98.4%), resulting in job creation The following chart shows that 95.5% of the employers agree that TVET contribution to job creation is vital because it provides occupation-specific skills, while 98.5% argue that TVET helps in addressing skills shortages and enhances worker productivity. The study identifies key job creation areas stemming from TVET, including painting and decoration, shoe-making, masonry, lumbering, machinery operation, and carpentry. The findings indicate that TVET plays a crucial role in fostering skill development, promoting the establishment of owner-operated firms, and encouraging business initiatives, which collectively contribute to the diversification of the local economy. Furthermore, a significant relationship is established between TVET and job creation, underscoring its importance in enhancing employment opportunities for the youth in Rusizi district. The study thus suggests a reinforcement of entrepreneurship-education programs and closer linkages between TVET centres and industries as the key areas that policymakers should focus on going forward. It further suggests greater investment in TVET infrastructure, policies that promote young entrepreneurs, and raising awareness among politicians about the importance of TVET. It also discourages youth from pursuing self-employment by training, urging them to rely a lot on mentorship as well as consistent learning and specialising in niche markets with the embracement of innovation.