An investigation of formal learning and experiential learning in the form of internships as facilitative mechanisms for employability and work readiness: a case study of the work experience and internship program of the KwaZulu-Natal clothing and textile SETA.

Abstract

The clothing and textile industry is an important driver of economic growth and development. Moreover, it is a labour-intensive industry. But due to technological advancement, the labour dynamic in the industry is becoming more technologyintensive, thus requiring a skilled workforce from higher education institutions (hereafter HEIs). There exists a gap between graduate skills and the industry skills demand. There is also high unemployment in South Africa. On the other hand, employers are also struggling to find employees with practical knowledge. Furthermore, there is a challenge in incorporating experiential learning into formal learning to facilitate learners’ employability. Thus, graduates find it difficult to integrate easily into a work environment due to a lack of practical skills and knowledge. This study investigates how formal learning at the Durban University of Technology and the SETA internship program can facilitate employability and work readiness. This qualitative study employs inductive thematic analysis to interpret data collected using semi-structured interviews with 30 respondents, including students, interns, lecturers, employers, recruitment agents, and SETA representatives. The findings revealed that the theoretical contents taught in HEIs are adequate. However, HEIs still need to develop curricula that increase practical components, aligning with the needs of the industry to produce quality graduates. Secondly, the findings showed that employers must provide adequate mentoring support for learners in internship programs. Thirdly, employers and learners are unaware of SETA's roles in facilitating internship placements and funding. Lastly, the findings identified employable skills relevant to the industry. This study recommends that to increase the employability of learners after graduation, there is a need to adopt an effective model through a partnership between HEIs, employers, and government where all stakeholders play active roles that facilitate the integration of experiential learning into formal learning, which helps learners develop relevant specific skills for employability in the industry.