Digital Transformation and Sustainable Funding Models in Vocational Skills Training: Addressing Challenges and Opportunities in Zimbabwe

Abstract: Zimbabwe's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector faces unprecedented challenges in the digital age, requiring innovative approaches to both technological integration and sustainable financing. This study examines the interplay between digital transformation and funding models in Zimbabwe's vocational skills training landscape, analysing current challenges and identifying emerging opportunities. Through a comprehensive literature review and comparative analysis with regional counterparts, this research reveals significant gaps in digital infrastructure, policy frameworks, and funding mechanisms that hinder TVET effectiveness. The study finds that Zimbabwe's youth unemployment rate exceeds 47%, while only 15% of students complete upper secondary education, highlighting critical skills mismatches. Digital transformation initiatives remain fragmented, with inadequate public-private partnerships limiting sustainable funding. Comparative analysis with South Africa and Botswana demonstrates successful models of integrated digital-funding strategies. The research identifies five key opportunity areas: enhanced digital infrastructure development, formalized public-private partnership frameworks, innovative financing mechanisms, industry-aligned curriculum development, and informal sector integration. Recommendations include establishing a National TVET Digital Transformation Fund, developing regulatory frameworks for public-private partnerships in skills development, and implementing competency-based training programs aligned with Fourth Industrial Revolution requirements. This study contributes to understanding how developing nations can leverage digital transformation and sustainable funding models to address skills gaps and youth unemployment challenges.