2/01 - The Roots of TVET

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The roots of TVET can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where apprenticeship models were used to pass down skills in trades and crafts from one generation to the next.

This educational approach has evolved through various stages of human civilization, adapting to the needs of different epochs while retaining its core objective: to equip individuals with the practical skills necessary for employment and entrepreneurship. From the ancient apprenticeships that conveyed specialized crafts skills in civilizations like Egypt and Greece, through the guild-driven training systems of medieval Europe, to the dawn of formal technical education during the Industrial Revolution, TVET has continuously transformed.

Each phase in its evolution has been influenced by the economic and technological changes of the times, eventually leading to the sophisticated and diverse vocational education systems that today cater to a globalized and rapidly changing job market.

Formalization of these practices varied significantly across cultures and epochs:

  • Ancient Times: Craftsmen in civilizations like Ancient Egypt and Greece trained apprentices in skills like building, metalwork, and pottery.

  • Middle Ages: Guild systems in medieval Europe formalized apprenticeships, with strict regulations on training and work quality in various crafts.

  • Industrial Revolution: The shift to industrialized economies in the 18th and 19th centuries highlighted the need for a more formally educated workforce, leading to the establishment of technical schools and institutes.

  • 20th Century: The rapid technological advancements and changing economic structures led to the expansion and formalization of vocational education globally. National policies and international organizations began emphasizing the importance of TVET in economic development and social inclusion.

Maya has summarized the evolution of TVET across different historical periods, providing specific examples that illustrate the formalization of these practices in various cultures and epochs. This table outlines how TVET systems adapted and became more structured over time, driven by the changing demands of economic and technological environments in each epoch:

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