Influence of Job Opportunities on Course Choice in Vocational Training Centres in Taita Taveta County, Kenya

Abstract

Job prospects and labor market conditions significantly influence choice of vocational course. Family enterprises, socioeconomic factors, and career counselling can influence trainees' choices. Guidance and information are crucial for informed decisions about vocational training. However, making wrong course choice leads to lack of work enjoyment, increase job stress and performing tasks poorly. A society's degree of poverty makes it harder for trainees to find work prospects. This study aimed at assessing the influence of job opportunities on the Choice of Course in Vocational Training Centres in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. Utilizing questionnaires and interview schedule, this research examines the factors that influence course selection among 2,386 trainees and 29 major managers in Taita Taveta County VTCs. The relationships between variables were found using a correlational research design. In the study, 714 trainees and 7 managers participated, who were stratified using the Stratified VTC approach. Collected data was coded into SPSS version 26 and analysed using descriptive (Frequencies and means) and inferential statistics (Regression analysis, the chi-square and ANOVA). Results indicated that employment opportunities insignificantly predicted course choice, F (1,706) = -.110, p > 0.05, which indicates that the employment opportunities played none significant role in shaping the course choice (b= - .579, p > 0.05) among the study participants. The study recommended that VTCs should focus on demand, marketable and direct job opportunities. Additionally, VTCs should have career offices for vocational guidance and counselling services.