Strategic Research on Social Problems (Dec 2023)
Proportion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Distribution of Employment in Iran
Abstract
IntroductionThe transition of graduates from various levels of the education system, whether it be from schools or universities, into the labor market has become a significant concern in many countries. This concern arises from the realization that a rising unemployment rate, particularly among educated youth, can have numerous economic and social repercussions for societies. Extensive research conducted by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in 2019 and the CEDEFOP in 2020 has highlighted the critical role of the mismatch between Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the demands of the labor market in exacerbating the unemployment crisis in low and middle-income countries. Consequently, recognizing the importance of establishing a harmonious relationship between TVET and workforce employment within the labor market, this study aimed to address the following question: To what extent does a balance or imbalance exist between the representation of TVET and employment in the three key sectors of industry, services, and agriculture within the country? With this objective in mind, this research endeavored to provide an overview of the current state of affairs concerning the presence or absence of equilibrium between TVET and employment within the country, while also underscoring the necessity of revising the educational development process based on the requirements of the labor market within this particular educational subsystem. Materials and MethodsThe present study was an applied research conducted using a quantitative approach and employing a descriptive-analytical method. Secondary research methodology was utilized in this study. The statistical data sources for this study comprised registration statistics of graduates from technical and vocational high schools at the second level, individuals, who have acquired skills through informal training offered by the TVT Organization, as well as graduates from Technical and Vocational Universities and Comprehensive Scientific-Applied Universities during the academic year of 2019/20. These data were categorized according to industry, services, and agriculture clusters. Additionally, data from the labor force census plan in the academic year of 2019/20 were also incorporated. Sampling and data verification processes were conducted using a complete counting approach and all the recorded data were included in the analysis. To address the research questions, descriptive-fuzzy tests, such as averages and standard deviations, were employed, along with inferential tests, such as single-group t-tests, ANOVA, and the TOPSIS and TOPSIS-A methods for data analysis. Discussion of Results & ConclusionThe research findings shed light on the current state of compatibility between employment and technical, vocational, and skill training within the sectors of industry, agriculture, and services of the country. Both the descriptive and fuzzy sections of the study revealed a lack of satisfactory alignment between training and employment nationwide with a significant mismatch observed across all three sectors. Specifically, the results indicated that mismatch existed in all clusters, with industry and agriculture experiencing a more pronounced disparity. The mismatch within the services and agriculture clusters primarily stemmed from a shortage of technical, vocational, and skill graduates in the fields related to these sectors. On the other hand, the imbalance within the industry cluster was attributed to an excess of technical, vocational, and skill training surpassing the demands of the labor market. This discrepancy characterized by a shortage of training in the services cluster and an oversupply of training in the industry cluster reflects a common characteristic of less developed societies. It stands in contrast to prevailing and future employment trends worldwide. Unquestionably, this trajectory will inevitably lead to a crisis of mismatch and a surge in unemployment in the country's labor market. In conclusion, the research findings underscored the urgent need to address the imbalance between training and employment in the country. A comprehensive review and revision of the education system, specifically tailored to meet labor market demands within this particular subsystem, are imperative. By aligning technical, vocational, and skill training with the evolving needs of industries in the country, the nation can navigate towards a more harmonious and prosperous labor market, thereby mitigating the risks associated with mismatch and unemployment in the future.
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