Effective Leadership of TVET Institutions: An Exploration of the Perspectives of TVET Leaders

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is increasingly being recognized as an agent of social and economic development. It equips youth and adults for work. Across the globe, TVET is challenged by issues such as inferior laboratories and equipment, lack of industry collaboration, and poor leadership. It is important that for TVET to achieve social and economic goals there has to be effective leadership of TVET programmes and institutions. This study seeks to determine the perspectives and characteristics of TVET leaders among selected TVET institutions in Jamaica. It was conducted using the explanatory sequential mixed methods design which features both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The study revealed perspectives of TVET leaders on effective leadership and the characteristics of effective TVET leaders; concluding by recommending that TVET leaders receive professional development to understand the key features of effective TVET programmes in order to lead effectively.