The Government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation has announced that it is embarking on a National Review and Modernisation of TEVET Curricula aimed at aligning skills training with current and future labour market demands.

Speaking today during a press briefing in Lilongwe, Minister of Labour, Skills and Innovation Honourable Joel Chigona, MP said the curriculum review demonstrates Government’s commitment to strengthening the TEVET system to make it more relevant, competitive and responsive to labour market demands and Malawi 2063 aspirations.

Chigona said the curriculum review has become necessary because the world of work is rapidly changing due to technological advancements, digital transformation, industrial modernisation, automation and emerging occupations, which are redefining the skills and competencies required by industry.

He added that the review is also intended to align the TEVET system with Malawi 2063 and the National Economic Recovery Plan by equipping graduates with relevant, future-oriented and industry-responsive skills capable of driving economic growth, job creation, innovation and national development.

“This reality demands that our TEVET system should evolve to equip Malawians with the skills required to drive economic growth, create decent jobs, promote innovation and compete effectively at regional and global levels,” said Chigona.

The review process will address critical areas including occupational competencies, competence standards, training and assessment materials, teaching and learning methodologies, instructor capacities, training equipment and facilities, as well as quality assurance systems.

TEVETA Executive Director, Elwin Chiwembu Sichiola, said the review process will strongly involve industries to ensure the curricula remains relevant and responsive to labour market needs.

“The review will heavily consult industries and all relevant stakeholders to identify the required skills that will be incorporated into the curriculum to enhance the relevance of training. This will help produce competent graduates for employability and market-fit entrepreneurship, capable of competing both regionally and internationally,” said Chiwembu Sichiola.

The review and modernisation exercise is expected to run from May 2026 to April 2027. Its objectives are to improve graduate employability, address skills mismatches within the labour market, enhance productivity and industrial competitiveness, and promote innovation and entrepreneurship. It also aims to align TEVET training with Malawi 2063 and national economic transformation priorities, respond to emerging and future skills demands, improve the teaching, learning and assessment environment, and review training duration and qualification pathways within the TEVET system.

The targeted sectors include Agriculture, Construction, Engineering, Commerce, Tourism and Hospitality, Mining, Beauty and Wellness Therapy, Textile and Garment Production, Transport, Printing and Publishing, among others.

To ensure that the review process is inclusive, transparent, technically sound, and industry-responsive, Government has established a National Curriculum Review Committee comprising key institutions and stakeholders that will provide policy guidance, technical expertise, industry perspectives, and quality assurance throughout the process.