An Assessment of the Challenges Associated with Technology Integration in Agricultural Programs in TVET Colleges in South Africa

The lack of effective technology integration is a significant challenge in several Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in the South African Province of Limpopo. This qualitative study aimed to assess the challenges associated with technology integration in agricultural programs. Using purposive and convenience sampling techniques, three out of seven TVET college campuses offering agricultural programs were identified, and a total of 20 agriculture lecturers were interviewed. Thematic analysis was employed to examine the data and identify patterns and themes. This study was grounded in Kotrlik et al.’s theory of technology integration and Sephokgole’s model, highlighting potential solutions for the challenges faced by agriculture lecturers in TVET colleges. The findings revealed that the exploration, experimentation, adoption, and advanced technology integration phases are hindered by ongoing challenges, including a lack of resources, tools, and stakeholder support. Unless the challenges related to insufficient training in technology integration are addressed, agricultural programs in TVET colleges risk falling behind in adopting modern agricultural practices. This study recommends that relevant stakeholders, including TVET colleges and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), provide lecturers with the necessary technological tools, resources, and training. This study serves as a valuable resource for future research, policy development, and practical implementation of technology integration in agricultural education. Keywords: Agriculture, Challenges, Technology Integration, TVET Colleges.