The Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA) is modernising curricula for training institutions to ensure that skills development aligns with industry needs and supports Zambia’s industrial and national development goals.
TEVETA Director for Development and Research, Phyllis Kasonkomona says curriculum reforms are aimed at aligning training with industry needs.
The media reports that Ms Kasonkomona disclosed this in Kafue district at a media workshop held at the Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre, during a presentation on Curriculum Development in TEVET: Enhancing skills for Industry and national development.
She said the authority is committed to producing graduates equipped with practical competencies that meet labour market expectations.
Ms Kasonkomona explained that the authority has further adopted internationally recognised curriculum models, the Develop A Curriculum (DACUM) and Systematic Curriculum as well as Instructional Development (SCID) frameworks to ensure that training programmes offered by institutions are responsive to the ever-changing demands of the industry.
“Our goal is to ensure that TEVETA curricula remain relevant, adaptable, and aligned to real labour market needs.
“We remain committed to building a skilled, competent, and innovative workforce that drives Zambia’s industrialisation and national development,” she said.
She said TEVETA’s Development and Research Division continues to lead in setting occupational standards, developing and reviewing national curricula, designing learning materials, and promoting increased access to quality technical and vocational education.
The Director disclosed that as of April 2025, the Authority had developed and reviewed 460 national curricula at different qualification levels, including diplomas, advanced certificates, and trade qualifications.
And, Ms Kasonkomona stressed that the reviewed curriculum cover key areas such as agriculture, aviation, engineering, hospitality, and information technology among others.
She further highlighted that TEVETA is transitioning to Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) an approach that accesses that capability of students as well as lecturers to demonstrate practical skills in real work environments rather than relying solely on theoretical examinations.
“CBET focuses on what learners can do in actual work situations, not just what they know,” she stated.
Ms Kasonkomona revealed that CBET is in line with TEVETA’s
2025 – 2027 Strategic Plan to shift and strengthen collaboration between training institutions and industry players.
She cited that programmes such as plumbing and pipe fitting which are supported by GIZ and Solar Energy supported by Commundo have already transitioned to CBET.
However, Ms Kasonkomona pointed out challenges such as limited funding, inadequate training equipment, over-enrolment, and a shortage of specialised instructors, which hinder effective curriculum implementation in training institutions.
To address these gaps, she recommended increased investment in workshops and learning materials, enhanced instructor training, formal linkages with industry, and regular curriculum reviews informed by research and labour market data.
She further announced that TEVETA will host a National TEVET Conference in 2027 to bring together educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to review progress and shape the future of skills development in Zambia.
