Influence of Technical and Vocational Education and Training on Skills Gap in the Masonry Workforce in Karamoja Sub-Region, Eastern Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract This study examined the influence of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) on the skills gap among masonry workers in Karamoja Sub-region, Eastern Uganda. Despite ongoing TVET efforts, the masonry workforce continues to exhibit notable skill deficiencies, suggesting a mismatch between training and industry demands. The study aimed to: (i) assess TVET’s influence on skill levels, (ii) identify specific skills gaps, and (iii) examine factors affecting training effectiveness. A cross-sectional design was used, with a sample of 109 selected through multi-stage sampling. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data were collected through and interviews and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Findings show that TVET positively influenced masonry skills, with respondents reporting improvements in handling complex tasks (3.50 ± 1.209), work performance (3.46 ± 1.253), quality of work (3.46 ± 1.083), confidence (3.41 ± 1.197), and application of new techniques (3.29 ± 1.191). However, significant skills gaps remained in advanced masonry techniques, site management, architectural drawing interpretation, and modern construction practices. Key inadequacies included limited practical exposure (3.30 ± 1.136), mismatch between taught skills and job requirements (3.24 ± 1.226), and incomplete coverage of essential techniques (3.41 ± 1.268). Training was further constrained by limited resources (3.50 ± 1.172), unqualified trainers (3.58 ± 1.251), short program durations (3.47 ± 1.262), insufficient materials and equipment (3.55 ± 1.142), lack of refresher courses (3.59 ± 1.159), environmental factors (3.40 ± 1.196), and inadequate feedback integration (3.49 ± 1.153). The study concludes that although TVET improves basic skills and work quality, it remains insufficient to close the industry-required skills gap. Systemic reforms are necessary to align TVET with industry demands, including extending training duration, integrating advanced practical modules, strengthening TVET-industry partnerships, upgrading training resources, and establishing continuous professional development.