| dc.description.abstract | In recent times, the industrial sector has emerged as a crucial catalyst for economic expansion,
employment generation, and technological progress. In order to fortify the longevity and
competitive edge of this industrial domain, the spotlight has turned to vocational education
programs as a pivotal avenue for nurturing a proficient workforce capable of addressing evolving
industry requirements. This study endeavors to evaluate the efficacy of vocational education within
Uganda's central region in fostering the growth of the industrial sector. This assessment
encompasses a holistic analysis spanning across diverse dimensions, aiming to provide
comprehensive insights into the matter.
The research utilized a mixed-methods framework, synergizing quantitative data analysis with
qualitative interviews, to meticulously evaluate the influence of vocational education on the
maturation and progress of the industrial sector. This investigative approach encompasses the
collection of primary data via surveys and in-depth interviews involving a spectrum of
stakeholders, including industry experts, policy formulators, educators, and students. Moreover,
supplementary data from pertinent reservoirs like government records, scholarly literature, and
industry digests underwent scrutiny to furnish a comprehensive backdrop for the study's
evaluation.
The study thoroughly examined factors like classroom facilities, instructor qualifications,
workshops, labs, industry ties, and quality controls. Using statistical analysis, it identified a Center
of Excellence in vocational education through the Simple Additive Weighting Technique within
Multi-Criteria Decision Making. Results revealed varied compliance levels: Low (63.2%),
Moderate (8.5%), High (21.8%), Very High (6.5%) and no non-compliance. This highlights room
for improvement, especially in workshops due to resource constraints and tutor expertise. The
study's insights benefit policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders, pinpointing strengths
and weaknesses using SWOT analysis, while advancing understanding of vocational education's
link to industrial growth. It offers data-driven recommendations for vocational education program
enhancement amidst changing technological and labor market landscapes.1 | en_US |
