Strategies for blended TVET in response to COVID-19

In response to high unemployment and under-employment of the global workforce, there is a need for flexible and scalable models for [technical and vocational education and training] TVET. This situation has been further exacerbated by [Coronavirus Disease 2019] COVID 19. Blended 'as-distance-as-possible' TVET allows for continuing selected components of TVET programmes, upskilling of essential workers in their workplaces, and starting to reskill displaced workers. It also offers the potential to rethink traditional TVET models to be able to reduce costs and increase flexibility, and thus...  [+] Show more

In response to high unemployment and under-employment of the global workforce, there is a need for flexible and scalable models for [technical and vocational education and training] TVET. This situation has been further exacerbated by [Coronavirus Disease 2019] COVID 19. Blended 'as-distance-as-possible' TVET allows for continuing selected components of TVET programmes, upskilling of essential workers in their workplaces, and starting to reskill displaced workers. It also offers the potential to rethink traditional TVET models to be able to reduce costs and increase flexibility, and thus reach marginalised and remote learners, including those working in the informal sector. This also presents opportunities to build TVET systems which can be more resilient in the face of other possible disruptions, such as further waves of infection, other pandemics, effects of climate change and civil wars. This publication shares examples and insights that can assist TVET officials and leaders to respond to immediate challenges and to prepare for a more resilient future.

Published abstract.