Family engagement in technical/vocational education and training and students’ enrolment in Akuapem North municipality in Ghana

The significance of career decision-making in shaping individuals' futures is paramount, especially in the context of technical/vocational education and training (TVET) in Ghana, where the economic shift from agriculture to industry underscores the need for skilled workers. This study aimed to investigate the role of family engagement in influencing students' enrolment decisions in TVET institutions within the Akuapem North Municipality of Ghana. It addressed the extent of this influence compared to other factors such as community influence, peer influence, social icons influence, personal interests and aspirations, and economic considerations. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a survey method with a 25-item questionnaire. The study sampled 384 respondents aged 12 to 19, who had spent at least one year in TVET institutions offering technical, home economics, and visual arts programmes. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using inferential statistics. The results indicate that while family engagement positively influences students' decisions to enrol in TVET institutions, other factors, such as community and social influences, economic considerations, social icons, community influences, and peers have a more substantial impact. Specifically, the influence of other factors was found to be stronger than that of family engagement. The findings highlight the critical role of both family and external influences in students' career choices, suggesting that strategies to enhance TVET enrolment should involve educating families and communities about the value of vocational training. This study contributes to understanding the dynamics of enrolment decisions in the context of Ghana's evolving educational landscape.