Development of a competency-based training manual to guide bamboo and rattan craftsmanship instruction in higher education

Purpose This study conceptualised and developed a Competency-Based Training (CBT) manual to support enhanced teaching and acquisition of technical skills using bamboo and rattan in Ghana’s higher education institutions. It addresses the lack of structured, competency-aligned guidance on creative skills development and industry-relevant craftsmanship for sustainable bamboo and rattan artefacts production. Methodology The study adopted the Design-Based Research (DBR) approach and exploratory mixed-methods design to develop and test a CBT-model manual to facilitate identification, processing, design, production, and finishing of industry-standard bamboo and rattan artefacts. The DBR framework addresses real-world educational challenges through iterative cycles of design, testing, and refinement [1]. The population comprised 210 undergraduate students and 14 lecturers in two KNUST programmes that integrate bamboo and rattan and 10 local bamboo and rattan artisans. Qualitative data were gathered through interview and observation while quantitative data were acquired via survey. Findings The manual facilitated acquisition of theoretical knowledge and hands-on creative skills in bamboo and rattan, a need identified by 92.9% lecturers and 96.3% students. The local TVET specifications provided measurable performance assessment criteria enshrined in the CBT-model manual. Test of the CBT-model manual validated its viability for transforming theoretical concepts into industrial-grade competencies. Originality and implications The study provides an innovative competency-based framework for harnessing bamboo and rattan as a sustainable means to bridge the gap between academic theory and creative skills development in Ghana’s higher education system. The model holds promise for enhancing graduate employability and Ghana’s creative autonomy through industrial craftsmanship standards. We recommend that Ghana’s TVET and Tertiary Education Commission adopt and accredit this model to standardise bamboo and rattan craftsmanship education to sustain the bamboo and rattan industry.