Managers' challenges on implementing inclusive education: Technical Vocational Education and Training Colleges

Abstract

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges attract a diverse population of students with different backgrounds in terms of culture, social norms, language, disabilities, race, and family structures. All such students have the right to equal access to education. However, there is still limited access and support to students with disabilities in TVET colleges. This paper explores challenges faced by the management of TVET colleges concerning the implementation of inclusive education, specifically for students with disabilities. A case study design within a qualitative research approach was adopted for this study. Two TVET colleges were conveniently selected with ten participants being purposively sampled. Data was collected through interviews, observations and document analysis. Findings revealed that the management of TVET colleges experience challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, funding, lecturer-training, and shortage of staff to support students with disabilities. It was recommended that TVET colleges establish Disability Service Units and recruit trained lecturers or they must train current lecturers to facilitate the learning process of disabled students.