The implementation of cooperative training program in Ethiopia: Experience from selected agro processing TVET colleges

Cooperative training is a central component of the outcome-based training (OBT) approach in Ethiopia’s TVET system, intended to align training with labour market needs. It provides trainees with opportunities to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical workplace experience and develop occupational competencies relevant to industry requirements. Effective cooperation between TVET institutions and enterprises is therefore essential for ensuring the relevance and quality of training. However, its implementation in agro-processing TVET colleges remains limited. This study assessed the status and challenges of cooperative training in selected colleges. A qualitative approach was employed using primary and secondary data from stakeholders in six TVET colleges, eighteen agricultural industries, and regional TVET offices. Data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions and were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that the implementation of the OBT system was weak and that existing cooperative training documents were insufficient to effectively guide practice. Although management boards and regional TVET bureaus provided some support, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms were inadequate, contributing to weak implementation across most colleges. The findings also indicated gaps in institutional capacity and coordination necessary to sustain effective cooperative training. Based on these findings, the study recommends developing comprehensive cooperative training documents supported by clear incentive mechanisms and appropriate legal frameworks, strengthening coordination and monitoring systems, improving training facilities, providing continuous professional development for trainers, and adopting alternative training modalities to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of cooperative training in agro-processing TVET colleges.