Skills and Technical Education Programme (STEP) - Phase 2
Comprehensive TVET system improvement and teacher training program
EU-funded comprehensive reform initiative expanding and improving equitable, gender-balanced TVET governance and institutional capacity through systematic curriculum modernization, qualification framework enhancement, and large-scale teacher professional development program targeting construction and integrated agriculture sectors, directly aligning with Malawi's National Development Strategy III and commitment to achieving SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) targets.
Building upon Phase 1 achievements, Malawi's TVET system transformation entered a critical consolidation phase addressing persistent challenges including outdated curricula misaligned with industry needs, inadequate instructor competencies in modern pedagogical approaches and technical skills, weak quality assurance mechanisms, and insufficient integration of green construction practices and climate-smart agriculture techniques. With youth unemployment exceeding 40% and rapid technological changes in priority economic sectors, the intervention focused on systematic capacity building across the Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training (TEVET) institutional framework.
Systematically enhance Malawi's TVET institutional capacity and quality through comprehensive revision and harmonization of construction sector curricula integrating green building practices and energy efficiency standards, implementation of upgraded National Qualifications System aligned with regional frameworks, execution of nationwide teacher professional development programs embedding sustainability concepts and renewable energy technologies, and establishment of robust governance mechanisms ensuring sustainable, equitable, and industry-relevant technical education delivery.
Specific Objectives:
- 1Improve access to Technical, Vocational, Entrepreneurial Training and Innovation (TVETI)
- 2Review and modernize the qualifications system
- 3Update curricula to meet current industry needs
- 4Enhance governance and management of TVET system
- 5Strengthen capabilities of TVET teachers and trainers
Key Activities
- Improving access to TVETI programs across Malawi
- Expanding opportunities for technical and vocational education
- Enhancing program delivery mechanisms
- Comprehensive review of existing qualifications system
- Modernizing certification and accreditation frameworks
- Aligning qualifications with industry standards
- Updating curricula to reflect current industry requirements
- Incorporating modern teaching and learning approaches
- Developing competency-based training modules
- Reviewing governance structures of TVET system
- Improving management practices and procedures
- Strengthening institutional frameworks
- Enhanced training programs for TVET teachers and trainers
- Professional development and capacity building initiatives
- Modern pedagogical approach training
Methodology
Competency-based curriculum development methodology incorporating DACUM analysis and industry validation processes
Systematic integration of green construction practices, energy efficiency standards, and climate-resilient building techniques across all trade areas
Comprehensive teacher professional development utilizing blended learning approaches and practical workplace exposure
Multi-stakeholder engagement ensuring alignment between curriculum content, industry requirements, and national development priorities
Evidence-based quality assurance framework development with continuous improvement mechanisms
Gender-responsive pedagogical approaches ensuring equitable participation and success across all programs
Project Outcomes
Harmonized competency-based curricula successfully developed and implemented across five construction trades (masonry, electrical installation, plumbing, carpentry/joinery, painting) at NQF Levels 2-3, integrating green building practices and renewable energy concepts
Over 200 TVET instructors comprehensively upskilled through intensive technical and pedagogical training programs, incorporating modern teaching methodologies, practical skills enhancement, and integration of sustainability principles
National Qualifications System successfully reviewed and upgraded to align with Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Qualifications Framework, enhancing regional mobility and recognition of Malawian qualifications
Quality assurance mechanisms operationalized with trained cohort of 50+ assessors, verifiers, and inspectors equipped with standardized tools and procedures for systematic evaluation of competency-based programs
Institutional governance frameworks strengthened across 12 TEVET institutions with improved management systems, gender-responsive policies, and sustainable financing mechanisms established
Measurable improvement in graduate employment outcomes with 65% of program completers securing productive employment or self-employment within six months of graduation, contributing to youth economic empowerment
2019 to 2020
Cadena International Development
Implementation Partner
Development OrganizationCadena International Development
Implementation Partner