Key issues and challenges for transformation

Abstract

In this chapter, I will focus on three types of issue for southern African VET systems. First, I will ask what the overall vision of VET is and should be and why transformation is seen as essential. Second, I will explore the place of VET in a broader policy environment, specifically through its relationships to economic and educational policy. Third, I will raise ten of the major debates in VET policy and sketch elements of their playing out in the region. Because of the different development levels of the countries in the region and the differing paces at which VET reform is being implemented, there inevitably will be more reference to some countries than others in what follows. It is important to stress that this should not be read as implying that some countries in the region should be seen as models for the development of VET in the others. Indeed, it will become clear as the from the early leaders in VET reform in the region.