An Assessment of Communication Skill Attributes for Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Graduates Required by Employers in Tanzania

Naisujaki Sephania Lyimo – Department of Applied Sciences and Social Studies, Arusha Technical College, Tanzania.
Jafari Mwanza – Mechanical Department, Arusha Technical College, Tanzania.
Email: naiviebe@gmail.com

Abstract: The emergence of Covid-19 pandemic necessitated for innovation in every aspect of human endeavours including the educational aspect. This study aimed at discovering attributes of communication skills for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates considered important in the labour market by employers/industries in the era of COVID-19 Pandemic. The study employed survey method using questionnaire as a tool for data collection. A total of 150 employers out of 300 were randomly selected from different industries from regions of Tanzania. The regions involved were Dar es salaam, Dodoma, Mwanza, Arusha and Mbeya to respond to the questionnaires. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages. This study established that employers require graduates who have ability to build a team and work in a team, ask for an apology when feeling guilty, write clearly, concise and correct manner, prepare and deliver an oral presentation, conduct meetings and minute writing, negotiate with the clients/customers and express ideas, thoughts and feelings effectively in writing and in speech. This calls for curriculum developers in TVET institutions to include these important abilities required by a graduate before entering the job market.