According to research conducted by the department, some of the reasons why students drop out of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges include financial difficulties, academic challenges, lack of adequate support, and personal issues.
As a result, the department has put in place various strategies to address this issue and improve retention rates in TVET colleges.
To facilitate access to young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, the department has developed the Policy Framework on Administration and Management of Student Admissions in TVET Colleges.
This framework ensures that colleges enrol students based on their cognitive abilities and provide equal opportunities to all students regardless of their social or economic background.
In addition to this, to ensure that students are appropriately enrolled in programmes aligned to their cognitive abilities, the administration of student selection and placement tests is compulsory in all TVET colleges. This ensures that students are placed in the right programme that suits their academic strengths and abilities.
To promote student access, financially and academically deserving students may apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The scheme covers tuition (inclusive of textbooks, consumables, and safety gear), personal care allowance, living allowance, and transport or accommodation. This enables students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access education without worrying about financial constraints.
Students who do not meet entry requirements for a particular programme as outlined in the college's admission policy may be enrolled on the Pre-Vocational Learning Programme (PLP).
The PLP is a one-year academic programme intended to bridge the gap in students' foundational knowledge in subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, and over and above including computer literacy and life skills. This programme helps students to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen field of study.
Furthermore, to improve the academic performance and retention rates of underperforming students, the Department has developed the Academic Support Guidelines.
These guidelines assist colleges to develop their academic support programmes and interventions for underperforming students. This ensures that students are given the necessary academic support and guidance to succeed in their studies.
The physical, emotional, and social health and well-being of students have an effect on students' ability to retain information and perform well academically.
To address this, the Department, in collaboration with Higher Health, is offering health, wellness, and psychosocial support to students with socio-economic challenges ranging from gender-based violence, substance abuse, health care, STD and HIV/AIDS screenings, and mental health.
This enables students to adapt to the demands of college life and their studies and ensures that they remain healthy and mentally fit throughout their academic journey.
