A Meta-Analysis of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Studies Across Continents

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) plays a critical role in enhancing employability and supporting economic development. However, global disparities exist in labor force participation, policy implementation, and system effectiveness, highlighting the need for cross-continental analysis. This study aimed to conduct a systematic meta-analysis of international TVET research to 1) evaluate labor force participation of TVET graduates, 2) identify innovative policies and systemic interventions that strengthen TVET outcomes, and 3) propose strategies suitable for enhancing the Philippine TVET system. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on 60 studies published between 2016 and 2022. Data were sourced from four academic databases: ProQuest, EBSCO, JSTOR, and Elsevier. Inclusion criteria targeted studies focused on TVET programs or graduates reporting employment outcomes or systemic interventions. Qualitative data were analyzed using MAXQDA, while quantitative data were synthesized to determine labor force participation across continents. Labor force participation of TVET graduates varied by region, with Asia reporting the highest rate (27.27%) and Africa the lowest (10.54%). Effective policies identified include strong governance, public-private partnerships, competency-based training, recognition of prior learning, and ICT-supported monitoring. For the Philippines, adopting these strategies can improve alignment with labor market needs and enhance graduate employability. The study demonstrates that context-specific policies, systemic interventions, and strategic partnerships are essential for improving TVET outcomes globally and locally. Evidence-based strategies can strengthen the Philippine TVET system, ensure labor market relevance, and promote workforce readiness.