Carrier or Preparing for Other Carrier: A Study of Dropouts Instructor in Technical Education

This study examines the professional challenges and opportunities faced by technical instructors in secondary education, focusing on the issue of instructor turnover in technical streams. Study captures the lived experiences of instructors who left their roles, revealing that societal and familial pressures, along with institutional neglect, contribute significantly to their feelings of inadequacy and humiliation. Despite their technical expertise, these educators often struggle with a lack of support, recognition, and alignment between their roles and societal expectations, leading to emotional distress and diminished motivation. The research highlights systemic gaps in integrating technical education into general school curricula, where the contributions of technical instructors are undervalued and overlooked. To address these challenges, the study emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture that appreciates and supports technical educators, bridging the gap between education and industry. It suggests strategies such as implementing supportive policies, providing professional development opportunities, and ensuring proper recognition and rewards for technical instructors. By improving the professional environment for technical educators, the study aims to enhance retention, boost morale, and align technical education with workforce demands, ultimately contributing to better educational outcomes for students and advancing Nepal's technical and vocational education sector. Keywords: Technical Education, Instructor Turnover, Narrative Inquiry, Professional Challenges, Vocational Training, Employability, Apprenticeship Models