Examining the relationship between the Clothing and Textiles curriculum and the world of work

Abstract

The delivery of the Clothing and Textiles curriculum has been marred by a myriad of challenges, and this has not spared universities. The relationship between universities and the world of work has been the most contested issues in Technical Vocational Education. The sample was made up of 60 respondents. Interviews, questionnaires, focus group discussions, document analysis and observations were employed as data collecting instruments. Quantitative data was analysed using the SPSS Statistical package and qualitative data was analysed thematically. The mixed method design which is rooted in the post-positivist research paradigm that integrates concurrent procedures in the collection, analysis and interpretation of the data was used. The study established that there was no collaboration between universities and industries. The study concluded that the lack of a clear link between universities and industries was a major contributory factor to the type of students universities were producing; students who lack the qualities needed by the world of work. The researchers recommended that there should be collaboration among University management, lecturers and the industry during curriculum design and monitoring to improve their attachment and sense of ownership of these programmes. Time for attachment should be lengthened so that students leave the industry well equipped with relevant skills and knowledge. There is need for the universities in liaison with industries to come up with policies that focus on student attachment.