Accessibility and usability of student support services in South African TVET colleges

Enhancing the accessibility and usability of student support services within South African TVET colleges is fundamental to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. This approach proactively addresses students' needs arising from their diverse backgrounds and the unique challenges they face. Consequently, this study investigated the accessibility and usability of student support services in South African TVET colleges. The researcher adopted a mixed-methods approach, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data from 83 participants selected from ten TVET colleges across South Africa. Participants, chosen through convenience sampling techniques, included student liaison officers, assistant directors, administrative clerks, career development officers, lecturers, and students. Data collection involved closed-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were examined through a thematic approach. The findings indicated that funding sources for student support services in South African TVET colleges originate from various contributions, including government subsidies, donations from caring individuals, and student fees. However, unclear guidelines and opaque eligibility criteria for accessing financial support pose significant challenges. It is recommended to develop strategies for fostering collaborative partnerships among TVET colleges, government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to enhance support services effectively.