IMPLICATIONS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY REVOLUTION FOR TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN POST COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has continue to gain momentum within framework of potential efforts and strategies to boost all faucets of human endeavors among which is acquisition of skills in Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for life-skills and life learning that could lead to employment and job creation in today's new economy. The impact of Covid-19 has brought about many challenges that include changes in ways of life that affects work, relationships, economy, choices, education, business, and many more. TVET has a greater role to play in making sure that its students and the existing technical workforce are given appropriate training to remain employable in the new economy of post Covid-19. Regrettably, many graduates of TVET do not poses computer soft skills required for Job success in post Covid-19. This paper reviewed the VLEs currently in use for theory lessons and identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) as appropriate online technology that should be used for lesson delivery considering the nature of TVET and the resultant challenges of covid-19 pandemic. The paper also identified areas of application of Al in industries in which training is conducted in TVET. The paper recommended among others that TVET institutions should begin planning and commencement of AI programmes towards workforce upgrade for the new economy.