Transformational Leadership and TVET Integration: Promoting Technical and Vocational Education and Training Across Jamaican Secondary School Curricula

Abstract

This study examines the role of transformational leadership in promoting the integration of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) across Jamaican secondary school curricula. The study is grounded in the view that effective school leadership is essential for expanding equitable access to TVET and preparing students with the technical, entrepreneurial, and employability skills required in a rapidly evolving labour market. As Jamaica continues to prioritize workforce development, innovation, and economic resilience, the inclusion of TVET within mainstream secondary education remains a national priority. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews and a review of current literature. Perspectives shared by participants were systematically analysed through thematic content analysis. Following the coding process, four key themes emerged and were organized according to the research questions guiding the study. These themes focused on leadership influence, curriculum integration, barriers to implementation, and the perceived benefits of TVET participation. The findings revealed that although progress has been made in expanding TVET opportunities across Jamaican secondary schools, access remains uneven, and not all schools offer a full range of technical and vocational programmes. The results showed that students who participate in TVET programmes are better positioned for entrepreneurship, employment, and further training after secondary school. The study also found that wider exposure to TVET contributes positively to national productivity, economic growth, and social mobility. In addition, participation in TVET helps students become more adaptable, marketable, and globally competitive in an era shaped by digital transformation and changing workforce demands. The study concludes that transformational leadership is a key driver of successful TVET integration and recommends stronger leadership development, improved teacher capacity, and sustained policy support to ensure that all Jamaican secondary school students benefit from high-quality TVET opportunities.