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This report investigates the status of vocational education and training (VET) in Tajikistan. The main assumption is that a productive VET system is necessary to enable local people to take over from qualified Russian workers and professionals who left the country after the fall of the Soviet Union. In Tajikistan, the VET system does not offer the relevant and up-to-date training necessary for a 21st century state. In any case, many Tajiks are not encouraged and do not perceive VET as providing pathways to viable occupations. It is suggested that VET in Tajikistan should have three objectives: (1) maintain the 'poverty alleviation context' so people can gain basic skills to support livelihoods; (2) enable young people and adults to enter and create positions in the labour market; and (3) enhance people's qualifications and lifelong learning skills. An overarching national qualifications scheme is also required, involving all stakeholders - the state, social partners, teachers and trainers, researchers and developers, students and their parents. Recommendations include: moving from institution-based to qualification-based programs; establishing a better integration between theoretical and practical subjects; attracting highly skilled teachers and trainers; developing open pathways so students are less likely to 'dropout'; investing in capacity building; diversifying funding sources; creating a legislative context for VET; and constructing appropriate governance frameworks.