The Federal Institute of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Ethiopia has announced the completion of a comprehensive study aimed at incorporating indigenous knowledge into the national education curriculum. This initiative seeks to integrate indigenous handicraft sectors into formal education, enhancing the relevance and cultural significance of vocational training.
Currently, indigenous handicraft skills are offered through short-term training programs, which are not fully integrated into the mainstream education system. Habtamu Mulugeta, Deputy Director General of Research and Community Services at the Federal TVET Institute, emphasized that while skills and talents related to indigenous knowledge exist, they are not adequately represented in the technical and vocational training system.
The study has identified and developed indigenous knowledge suitable for training, ensuring that traditional skills are preserved and promoted within the educational framework. This comprehensive research encompassed knowledge from various parts of the country, aiming to provide a holistic approach to vocational training.
The integration of indigenous knowledge is expected to significantly enhance the training system, improving the quality and relevance of education. By updating the curriculum to include traditional skills and crafts, the initiative aims to create a more inclusive and culturally rich educational environment, benefiting both students and the broader community.