A tracer study of home economics graduates in Botswana: a case of the University of Botswana

Abstract

career paths of graduates from the Department of Home Economics Education (DHEE) at University of Botswana (UB). This tracer study involved a survey of market demands, perceived training needs andjob satisfaction of participants. A purposive sample of 100 DHEE alumni in government schools and district councils were targeted, but only 63%o responded. Results indicate that 82.5%) and 17.5% of graduates had bachelor's degree and diploma qualifications from the UB respectively. In terms of occupations of participants, 80%> were teachers while 20 %> were in extension services. Most graduates specialised in foods & nutrition (60%>), followed by textiles & clothing (17.8%j), family studies (I3.3%o) and housing & interior design (8.9%>). Two thirds of graduates felt adequately prepared for the market. Of participants with aspirations for graduate training 29.5%> preferred masters' degree training in human nutrition & dietetics, while 27.8%>, 21.3%), 13.1%) and 6.6%> preferred textiles & clothing, foods & nutrition, child development, and general Home Economies respectively. Among other recommendations, the research proffers that the University of Botswana should offer short term training courses that cater for the demands of a technology driven employment sector.