Perceptions of Students and Parents on Catering Vocational Education: A Case Study in the Bono Region of Ghana

This study examines the perceptions of students and parents in the Bono Region of Ghana regarding catering vocational education and investigates the factors that influence these perceptions. The study adopted a survey research design. Data was collected from 120 students and 120 parents through structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using SPSS v. 20. The findings reveal that students and parents have a generally positive view of catering vocational education, recognising it as a professional and comprehensive pathway that provides essential skills for employment. Passion for catering and the prospect of easy employment are key motivators for students pursuing vocational education, while concerns about the financial costs of the programme remain a significant barrier. Frantic efforts should be made at reducing the cost of catering vocational education by retooling vocational schools with tools and equipment to reduce the cost borne by students.