Overview
The PhD in Leadership and Management of TVET program is founded on the philosophy of critical pragmatism, integrating advanced analytical reasoning, strategic management, and applied research. The program challenges learners to synthesize complex theories, critically evaluate policies, and develop innovative, technology-driven solutions to leadership and management challenges in TVET. Through an inclusive and flexible learning environment, scholars engage in high-order inquiry, evidence-based decision-making, and transformative leadership to drive sustainable development in education, workforce development, and institutional management.
Rationale: A needs assessment conducted from January to April 2024 revealed several key findings that underscore the urgent need for the PhD in Leadership and Management in TVET. Firstly, there has been an increase in the enrollment in Bachelor of Technology Education (BTED) students who upon graduation are employed as trainers at TVET institutions, reflecting the growing demand for skilled educators in the sector. Alongside this, there is a noticeable increase in the number of TVET institutions being established, creating a greater need for qualified trainers and demand effective management to guide these institutions toward success. As a result, there is a clear demand for highly trained leaders and managers, including innovators and critical thinkers, at the graduate and doctoral levels. Moreover, the progressive mobility of graduates from the undergraduate programs to advanced leadership and management roles is becoming increasingly necessary. To sustain the growth of TVET and address its evolving challenges, there is a pressing need for a clear pathway for these graduates to advance into higher-level roles, particularly masters and PhD in leadership and management. Graduates must be prepared to not only teach but to lead, manage, and innovate within these expanding TVET institutions. This shift in the landscape of TVET calls for the creation of a PhD in Leadership and Management in TVET program, aimed at developing leaders who are equipped to take on senior management and policy-shaping roles. The program will focus on training individuals who can not only manage TVET institutions effectively but also shape policies and systems that respond to the demands of both education and industry, ultimately advancing the national TVET agenda.
The development of this program was guided by extensive engagement with key stakeholders from January to April 2024, including school principals, representatives from the Ministry of Education, graduates of the M.Ed in Technology Education offered by the department, and Ph.D. graduates from Kenyan universities' Schools of Education. These consultations, which also included input from industries, TVET institutions, external examiners, and faculty from the Schools of Education and Engineering, confirmed the need for highly skilled leadership in the TVET sector.
The establishment of the program is driven by several critical needs and considerations. There is a growing demand for Technology Education to enhance institutional efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to the evolving labor market demands. This program addresses the gap by equipping leaders with strategic thinking, innovation management, and operational excellence capabilities. 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy, are imperative for Technology Education leaders to effectively navigate the complexities of modern educational environments. A PhD program ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in these competencies but also capable of fostering them within their institutions. Progression from a Master degree in Technology Education to a PhD in Technology Education is a natural academic and professional advancement, enabling deeper specialization, research competency, and thought leadership. It prepares individuals for higher-level responsibilities, including policy formulation, strategic planning, and transformative leadership in Technology Education.
Goal: The PhD in Leadership and Management in TVET at the Open University of Kenya is designed for visionary leaders, strategic managers, and dedicated scholar-practitioners who are passionate about transforming TVET through research, policy, and practice. This program empowers learners with the skills to critically analyze challenges, design sustainable solutions, and drive meaningful change in TVET systems worldwide. With a strong focus on strategic leadership, institutional management, and policy innovation, the program encourages deep intellectual engagement, interdisciplinary research, and high-level analytical thinking. By integrating advanced research methodologies, emerging technologies, and global best practices, graduates are well-prepared to shape education, influence policy, and contribute to economic and social development. Through comparative studies, community engagement, and global collaboration, the program fosters a commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. Graduates leave equipped to lead policy reforms, strengthen institutions, and address the evolving challenges of education and workforce development in the 21st century.