Abstract
TVET in South Africa faces many significant challenges in producing graduates who are well-equipped for the demands of the industry. The TVET curriculum is misaligned, which results in graduates lacking the practical skills and knowledge required by industry. This study is purposed to identify pertinent challenges in South Africa's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system which are not aligned to industry. A qualitative research design was employed, involving in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including three academic support officers, six engineering apprentices, and six National Certificate Vocational (NCV) interns. The results indicate that the curriculum is mismatched with industry needs, lacking alignment with modern technologies, and evolving workplace demands. There is a call for more flexible, industry-responsive curricula and for lecturers to be better qualified, both academically and professionally. Collaboration between TVET institutions and industries is crucial for bridging these gaps and preparing students for the future workforce.