Background: In Benin, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Apprenticeship Programs play a prominent role in the education system. The national unemployment rate was as low as 1.7% in 2022, suggesting that these forms of training contribute to aligning education outcomes with labour market needs. Objective: This research analyses the effectiveness of Benin employees focusing on the contribution of TVET at school and apprenticeship to the business sector. Methodology: To conduct this research, we gathered data by using literature and 45 semi-structured interviews. Respondents were selected from department of secondary education and TVET, agency for continuing education and apprenticeship, Swisscontact personnel, staff of the business sector and scholars in Parakou and Cotonou, Benin Republic. Findings: First, although TVET in secondary school offered several career opportunities to the students, 79 percent of the participants claim that TVET does not promote employment. The reforms of apprenticeship led to two formal apprenticeship programs: a dual training track and a renovated traditional apprenticeship. Second, 44.4 percent of participants found that the TVET programs as well as the two apprenticeship programs, do not meet the needs of the Beninese market. Though, 83 percent argued that people in Benin have preference for long-term education. It appears that those who achieve more education, are able to earn. Third, the research concludes that neither TVET nor formal apprenticeships, is effective to promote suitable employment and earning. Practical implication: Reforming technical education by matching the skills learning to the needs can lead to decent work. © The Author(s) 2025.
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