**2. Embracing innovation for competency development**

Embracing innovation for competency development TVET institutions must embrace innovation and focus on developing the competencies that are in demand in the global workforce to remain relevant and effective in the twenty-first century. This requires a shift in teaching methods, curricula, and assessment practices to ensure that TVET programs are aligned with the needs of the labor market and the evolving expectations of learners. Key elements that highlight the need for innovation and competency development in TVET include:


collaboration with industry partners to identify the specific competencies that are in demand and to develop targeted training programs.

Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) can ensure that graduates possess the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the workforce by aligning curricula with industry needs, providing practical training, fostering soft skills development, and offering flexible programs, Moreover, strong linkages with industry stakeholders enable TVET institutions to remain responsive to the ever-evolving demands of the labor market.

This can be achieved through a combination of strategies and approaches:


To ensure the success of TVET programs in the twenty-first century, it is important to learn from and build on the best practices and experiences of successful programs and institutions. This section examines best practices and case studies related to successful TVET programs and institutions, innovative teaching and learning strategies, and effective industry-academia partnerships.


effective in addressing skills shortages and promoting youth employment. This model ensures that students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while industry partners benefit from a highly skilled and job-ready workforce.


These best practices and case studies demonstrate the importance of adopting innovative teaching and learning strategies, establishing strong industry-academia partnerships, and continuously adapting to the changing demands of the labor market. By learning from these examples, TVET institutions can enhance the quality, relevance, and effectiveness of their programs, preparing students for success in the twenty-first century workforce.

In order to effectively prepare students for the workforce in the twenty-first century, TVET institutions must continuously adapt and incorporate innovative teaching methods that engage learners, promote the acquisition of relevant skills, and facilitate the application of knowledge in real-world settings. The several innovative teaching methods that have proven effective in TVET contexts are:

#### **2.1 Problem-based learning (PBL)**

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered pedagogical approach that involves presenting learners with complex, real-world problems and encouraging them to collaboratively work toward finding solutions. In TVET, PBL helps develop critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, decision-making and collaboration skills among learners, which are crucial for success in the workplace [3]. By engaging students in authentic tasks that mirror real-world challenges, PBL fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter and facilitates the transfer of skills to the job setting. PBL can be particularly effective in TVET, as it helps to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application by simulating workplace challenges and engaging students in hands-on experiences.

Key aspects of PBL in TVET include:

a.Real-world problems: PBL requires the development of authentic, industryrelevant problems that challenge students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world situations.

*Perspective Chapter: TVET in the 21st Century – A Focus on Innovative Teaching... DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.112516*


Institutions like the Aalborg University in Denmark have successfully integrated PBL into their engineering programs, resulting in enhanced student engagement, improved problem-solving skills, and increased collaboration between students and industry partners.

#### **2.2 Blended learning**

Blended learning combines traditional face-to-face instruction with digital technologies to create a more flexible, personalized, and effective learning environment [4–6]. This approach allows TVET institutions to offer diverse learning experiences, such as online courses, virtual laboratories, and interactive multimedia content, complementing traditional classroom teaching.

Key aspects of blended learning in TVET include:


#### **2.3 Flipped classroom**

The flipped classroom model involves reversing the traditional order of instruction, with students first engaging with learning materials independently (e.g., watching videos or reading texts) before coming to class to participate in collaborative activities and discussions [7]. This approach encourages students to take responsibility for their learning while allowing instructors to focus on facilitating discussions, practical exercises, and collaborative problem-solving during class sessions.

In TVET, the flipped classroom model allows for more hands-on, experiential learning during class time, as students have already acquired foundational knowledge beforehand. This approach encourages active learning and enables instructors to provide more individualized support, addressing specific learning needs and challenges. Key aspects of flipped classrooms in TVET include:

