Exploring the Determinants of Students' Attitudes Towards Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Western Fiji

This study aims to identify the factors influencing students' attitudes toward Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Western Fiji, focusing on parental influence, teacher influence, peer influence, career prospects, job potential, and social status. The research investigates whether these factors significantly affect students' perceptions of TVET. A total of 200 participants, consisting of 111 males and 89 females aged between 20 and 60 years, were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The study employed a cross-sectional design with a convenience sampling method, distributing 250 online questionnaires to the target population in vocational institutions. A response rate of 80% was achieved, with 200 completed questionnaires returned. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics via SPSS. The findings indicate that parental, teacher, and peer influences significantly shape students' attitudes towards vocational education. The results suggest that these influences, combined with career and social expectations, may contribute to negative attitudes toward TVET.