It is true that many people prefer to pursue academic studies at university rather than to follow
a vocational training course. While nobody can deny the need for university graduates, I
totally agree that we should encourage more people to qualify as electricians, plumbers or
other essential manual workers.
There are two important reasons why more workers must be trained in skilled professions
such as plumbing or electrical work. Firstly, such workers are vital when new buildings are
constructed or when existing buildings have to be renovated or simply maintained. Indeed, in
many countries, a permanent maintenance staff of skilled tradesmen is employed in hospitals,
schools or museums, ensuring the safety of all who use the buildings. Secondly, in some
developed countries, there is an existing imbalance in the economy, resulting in graduate
unemployment, while at the same time there is a shortage of skilled labour. Governments in
those countries need, therefore, to work with employers to ensure that extra vocational
training is provided.
More people must be encouraged to attend vocational training courses. The onus is on
schools to incorporate relevant subjects into the curriculum, so that not all the emphasis is
placed on preparation for academic study at university. Many boys and girls are not
academically inclined, but this does not mean that schools should consider them as failures.
For example, workshops in schools could provide an opportunity to learn ‘hands-on skills’,
adapting the theory of the physics lessons to practical applications. Parents should also
help their children to choose vocational careers, explaining the good employment prospects and remuneration for manual workers with qualifications and skills
In conclusion, I agree that it is vital that we encourage more people to do vocational training
because without such skilled workers, society cannot function effectively