The Third Tracer Study Reveals Key Insights into Employability and Training Outcomes 

Background of the Study

The SDP strives to increase access to quality training for disadvantaged young women and men and to help them secure employment. To assess the outcomes of the SDP-supported training, tracer studies are conducted with graduates 6 and 12 months after completing their courses. These studies evaluate the relevance and effectiveness of skills training for the workplace.

This final tracer study of the SDP Phase 2 surveyed a range of graduate cohorts, including those who completed their training 6 months, 12 months and 2 years ago. It also gathered feedback from employers and training provider partners such as the Provincial Training Centres (PTCs), Technical Training Institutes (TTIs) and Provincial Departments of Tourism (PDoT) to measure the wider impact of the training interventions. The study was conducted using both face-to-face and telephone surveys.

Study Objectives            

The main objectives of the tracer study were to analyse and understand:

• The quality and relevance of the post-training support provided to graduates.
• The employment status and income of graduates.
• Employment progress from 6 to 12 months after graduation.
• The relevance of the skills training for the workplace.
• Improvements of working conditions.
• Other perceived benefits of the training programmes.

Study Framework

The study utilised questionnaires developed based on specific objectives and performance indicators. These indicators measured graduate satisfaction, employment status, skills improvement, income changes, and relevance of training to the workplace. Additional indicators were used to assess employer satisfaction with graduate competencies and willingness to participate in future training initiatives.

Scope and Methodology

The study was conducted using a stratified random sampling technique, targeting graduates and employers across a range of sectors. The sample size was determined based on population size, confidence levels and response distribution. The data collection process involved digital questionnaires administered via telephone surveys and face-to-face interactions, with data analysis performed using Microsoft Power BI for visualisation. 

The study included three main groups:

1. Graduates from different cohorts (6-month, 12-month and first batch graduates).
2. Employers who recruited graduates, including those in the hospitality sector (HoKa).
3. Trainers and managers from public partners such as PTCs, TTIs and PDoT

Survey Findings

The third round of the tracer study confirms that the training programmes supported by the SDP continue to have a positive impact on the employability and career progression of graduates. Employers in various sectors, particularly in the hospitality industry, reported satisfaction with the skills and competencies of graduates. Trainers and managers also noted improvements in their professional skills and institutional development, contributing to the overall success of the SDP Phase 2.