Managing work integrated learning and apprenticeships

Rowan Van Dyk
  • 1 Day Ago
As industries continue to evolve and the demand for skilled labour rises, managing work-integrated learning (WIL) and apprenticeships has become a critical task.



One of the key recommendations by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is the use of intermediaries – qualified professionals who act as facilitators between training providers, employers and learners. Intermediaries play a vital role in ensuring that WIL and apprenticeship programmes run smoothly and deliver the desired outcomes for all parties involved.



What are ­intermediaries?



An intermediary, according to the ILO, is an entity who is not the employer and not the training provider and is responsible for bridging the gap between the technical education provided in a classroom setting and the practical skills required in the workplace.



By coordinating with employers and educational institutions, intermediaries ensure that the training aligns with industry needs.



This is particularly crucial in sectors such as construction, agriculture, wholesale and retail, arts and crafts, tourism and hospitality and information technology, where specific skills are in high demand. Intermediaries could help to design relevant training programmes, source appropriate work placements and monitor the progress of both apprentices and businesses.



For businesses, working with an intermediary simplifies the process of participating in WIL and apprenticeship programmes. Instead of navigating the complex regulatory and educational requirements on their own, companies can rely on intermediaries to guide them through each step. Intermediaries ensure that companies meet the necessary legal and educational standards while also helping them customise the training to their specific operational needs.



Namibia and ­intermediaries



Namibia, as a member country of the ILO, has adopted the latest recommendations of June 2023 and included the role of intermediary in the WIL and apprenticeship management process. These intermediaries are approved by the Namibia Training Authority (NTA), and they play a critical role in supporting these programmes. They liaise with both learners and businesses to ensure that training is mutually beneficial. This coordinated approach maximises the effectiveness of WIL and apprenticeship programmes, resulting in highly skilled workers who are well-prepared for employment in their respective industries.



By leveraging the expertise of intermediaries, businesses can focus on their core operations while contributing to the development of a competent, job-ready workforce.



*Dr Rowan van Dyk is a TVET specialist and a member of the ministerial task force for TVET.