Introduction To TVET and Its Significance In The Culinary World

Have you ever marvelled at the skills of a master chef as they transform simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces or been delighted by the seamless service at a fine-dining restaurant? The secret behind these skilled hands and exceptional expertise, finesse, and flair often lies in an educational approach known as Technical and Vocational Education and Training, or TVET.

TVET is the unsung hero of the education world, quietly shaping the future by providing hands-on, practical training, skills, and knowledge tailored to specific trades and professions. 

What is Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET): Definition and Purpose 

Although TVET is not new, it has gained significant popularity in countries like Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Germany. These nations prioritize knowledge-based skills and only hire workforces with strong certified technical training.

The advent of the Information Technology (IT) industry era exemplified the importance of TVET. The meteoric rise of TVET programs is often attributed to the IT boom of the '80s and '90s when the IT industry rapidly needed resources and capacity with the requisite skills and knowledge to sustain the fast-growing demand. TVET emerged as the logical solution, leading to the growth centres that offered IT industry-focused knowledge and skills education and training, helping students secure jobs and rapidly advance their careers.

TVET has proven to be an effective tool for quickly addressing skills shortages and labour market demands, playing a vital role in supporting evolving industries. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) identifies TVET as essential for achieving two crucial Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4, Quality Education, and SDG 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth. By upskilling individuals with technical know-how, TVET addresses both goals, making it easier for people to find employment.

According to a recent report published on Industryreach.biz, “The global Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) market size was valued at USD 669.84 billion in 2023 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 10.13% during the forecast period, reaching USD 1.19 trillion by 2031.”

In the past year, Germany, Switzerland, and South Korea have emerged as leaders in vocational training, boasting robust systems that have become models for other countries to emulate.

The New Kind of Education-TVET
Here is a video by Nas Daily, stressing the importance of opting for outcome-driven and industry-focused vocational education programs.


What Role Does TVET Play In The Culinary Industry? 

The hospitality industry is a vital economic driver but faces numerous challenges regarding an ideal application-focused and outcome-driven workforce. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is crucial in overcoming these challenges, aligning the workforce with industry needs, and creating a sustainable and market-ready workforce. 

The latest UAE Hospitality Market Review Q1 2024 report from CBRE reveals that Abu Dhabi witnessed a surge in the total number of hotel guests, with an increase of 22 per cent annually to 1.30 million visitors. Dubai experienced robust growth, with 5.18 million international visitors in Q1. This marks a 10.9 per cent annual increase and a 9.1 per cent increase compared to pre-pandemic levels (2019). 

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the UAE's travel and tourism sector will create 23,500 new jobs in 2024, bringing the total number of jobs to 833,000. WTTC said the industry will employ 928,000 people by 2034, with 1 in 9 residents working. This means around 95,000 new jobs will be created between 2024 and 2034. 

The industry is booming, and the demand for skilled culinary professionals is skyrocketing. TVET programs meet this need, offering tailored training that aligns perfectly with industry standards. These programs don't just teach theory—they immerse students in hands-on experiences, allowing them to master the techniques and skills essential for success in the kitchen. 

However, the success of TVET programs hinges on the necessary infrastructure to simulate a work environment, industry-experienced and qualified instructors, well-articulated systems and processes, quality and compliance standards, and an internationally accredited certification. This is where the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA) in Dubai and Abu Dhabi stands out. ICCA's state-of-the-art, award-winning facilities offer an intensive, hands-on, industry-focused, and outcome-driven culinary education that ensures you achieve your goals.

From knife skills to menu planning and delivery at international industry standards, ICCA's practical approach ensures graduates are knowledgeable, confident, and capable in real-world culinary environments to help seamlessly integrate and effectively deliver. This blend of targeted training and experiential learning makes TVET in Culinary Arts at the ICCA indispensable in producing the next generation of Professional Chefs of the desired level.

TVET's Contribution to Skilled Culinary Professionals 

Many chefs in the industry vouch for hands-on training and emphasize the importance of continuous learning in the kitchen. According to industry experts, there's no better training than practising, making mistakes, and learning from those mistakes. 

"It takes the same time and energy to produce a good product as it does to produce a bad one. If you keep that in mind and try to produce consistent quality with passion, there is no stopping. The focus has to be on getting practical knowledge. That's how you learn to do things," says Chef Leslie DSouza, Resort Head Baker at Madinat Jumeirah. 

Chef Andy Cuthbert, General Manager of Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, ICCA Dubai Scholarship Committee Member, Continental Director for Africa and the Middle East at Worldchefs, and President of the Emirates Culinary Guild, had a humble beginning. Starting as a dishwasher, he apprenticed in different restaurants for four years before studying TVET at Boxhill TAFE in Melbourne, Australia. He said the training was excellent, teaching the basics correctly and giving him a solid foundation to build his career. 

"The right qualifications and a solid grounding in the basics are essential in becoming a true Chef. It is not about creating Instagrammable food and food blogging; rather, it's about knowing how to cook correctly," says Andy Cuthbert. 

Benefits of TVET Culinary Programs For Aspiring Chefs

1. Hands-On Training: TVET programs offer technical training with practical, hands-on experience in actual kitchen settings, which is essential for mastering culinary knowledge and skills.

2. Industry-Relevant Curriculum: TVETs offer courses tailored to meet prevailing and emerging industry standards, ensuring students learn times relevant techniques and practices.
3. Job-Ready Skills: Graduates leave TVET programs with the knowledge and skills to start working immediately in professional kitchens. 
4. Expert Instruction: Students learn from experienced chefs and industry professionals, gaining insights from their expertise.

5. Access to Modern Equipment: Good TVET program providers provide access to state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, mirroring professional culinary environments.
6. Strong Industry Connections:
Many TVET institutions partner with restaurants and hotels to help facilitate internships and job placements.
8. Comprehensive Learning: Combining application-focused and outcome-driven theoretical knowledge and practical skills ensures a well-rounded culinary education.
9. Career Advancement: TVET credentials are respected in the industry, opening doors and offering career growth.
10. Innovation and Creativity: TVET Programs encourage innovation and creativity, helping chefs develop their unique culinary style

11. Global Opportunities: A solid TVET education can qualify chefs for opportunities worldwide, helping enhance their career prospects. 

Too good to be true? Let's hear it from TVET students themselves… 

Murtaza Buhrani
Event & Sales Manager, Grand Hyatt, Dubai
Professional Diploma, Cookery

Queen Celestine
Ms Universe- Nigeria
Professional Diploma, Cookery

Sudakshina Iyer
Professional Diploma, Patisserie
Le Cordon Bleu Alumni

These aspiring chefs grow up to become the likes of Anthony Bourdain, Bobby Flay, Vikas Khanna and many more. 

The Celebrity chefs who went to culinary schools

1. Emeril Lagasse, a famous chef, restaurateur and television personality and owner of several restaurants,

2. Anthony Bourdain, the celebrity chef behind the famous New Yorker article,  “Don’t Read Before Eating This”. He was an executive Chef at Brasserie Les Halles in Manhattan, New York, and appeared in TV Shows, like ‘A Cook’s Tour’ and his eponymous, ‘Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. 

3. Julia Child, the American Chef and author, opened her own school just after six months of formal training at a culinary school. She also wrote a book along with her classmates called "Mastering the Art of French Cooking."  

4. Vikas Khanna, Michelin Star Chef, entrepreneur, and an author, he runs Junoon in New York and has recently opened another one, called Bungalow. Khanna is also an author of Sacred Foods of India, Khanna's latest project, is a limited-edition book, of which only 250 copies have been made available.

5. Bobby Flay, the owner and executive chef of several restaurants: Mesa Grill in Las Vegas and the Bahamas; Bar Americain in New York and at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, Connecticut; Bobby Flay Steak in Atlantic City; Gato in New York, and Bobby's Burger Palace in 19 locations across 11 state 

As the culinary industry flourishes, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs will significantly shape skilled professionals ready to meet its demands. Offering quality education, hands-on experience, and an industry-relevant, application-focused, and outcome-driven curriculum.

Internationally renowned TVET institutions such as the ICCA in Dubai and Abu Dhabi empower aspiring chefs, enthusiasts and entrepreneurs with a quality culinary education in state-of-the-art, world-class facilities, honing practical knowledge and skills necessary for success in professional kitchens.  

Ready to embark on your journey towards becoming a culinary professional? Explore our professional programs here, accredited by the internationally renowned City & Guilds, London, and recognised by the Worldchefs. 

This blog is part of the #TalkingTVET/ #EmpowerThroughTVET/ #TVETForChange/ #TVETTheWayForward series. We're excited to explore the dynamic world of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), its impact, and the inspiring stories with you. Join us in discovering the transformative power of TVET, shaping careers and empowering individuals for success! Want to know more about TVET programs at ICCA? Click here to get the details https://www.iccadubai.ae/

Have you ever marvelled at the skills of a master chef as they transform simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces or been delighted by the seamless service at a fine-dining restaurant? The secret behind these skilled hands and exceptional expertise, finesse, and flair often lies in an educational approach known as Technical and Vocational Education and Training, or TVET.

TVET is the unsung hero of the education world, quietly shaping the future by providing hands-on, practical training, skills, and knowledge tailored to specific trades and professions. 

What is Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET): Definition and Purpose 

Although TVET is not new, it has gained significant popularity in countries like Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Germany. These nations prioritize knowledge-based skills and only hire workforces with strong certified technical training.

The advent of the Information Technology (IT) industry era exemplified the importance of TVET. The meteoric rise of TVET programs is often attributed to the IT boom of the '80s and '90s when the IT industry rapidly needed resources and capacity with the requisite skills and knowledge to sustain the fast-growing demand. TVET emerged as the logical solution, leading to the growth centres that offered IT industry-focused knowledge and skills education and training, helping students secure jobs and rapidly advance their careers.

TVET has proven to be an effective tool for quickly addressing skills shortages and labour market demands, playing a vital role in supporting evolving industries. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) identifies TVET as essential for achieving two crucial Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4, Quality Education, and SDG 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth. By upskilling individuals with technical know-how, TVET addresses both goals, making it easier for people to find employment.

According to a recent report published on Industryreach.biz, “The global Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) market size was valued at USD 669.84 billion in 2023 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 10.13% during the forecast period, reaching USD 1.19 trillion by 2031.”

In the past year, Germany, Switzerland, and South Korea have emerged as leaders in vocational training, boasting robust systems that have become models for other countries to emulate.

The New Kind of Education-TVET
Here is a video by Nas Daily, stressing the importance of opting for outcome-driven and industry-focused vocational education programs.


What Role Does TVET Play In The Culinary Industry? 

The hospitality industry is a vital economic driver but faces numerous challenges regarding an ideal application-focused and outcome-driven workforce. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is crucial in overcoming these challenges, aligning the workforce with industry needs, and creating a sustainable and market-ready workforce. 

The latest UAE Hospitality Market Review Q1 2024 report from CBRE reveals that Abu Dhabi witnessed a surge in the total number of hotel guests, with an increase of 22 per cent annually to 1.30 million visitors. Dubai experienced robust growth, with 5.18 million international visitors in Q1. This marks a 10.9 per cent annual increase and a 9.1 per cent increase compared to pre-pandemic levels (2019). 

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the UAE's travel and tourism sector will create 23,500 new jobs in 2024, bringing the total number of jobs to 833,000. WTTC said the industry will employ 928,000 people by 2034, with 1 in 9 residents working. This means around 95,000 new jobs will be created between 2024 and 2034. 

The industry is booming, and the demand for skilled culinary professionals is skyrocketing. TVET programs meet this need, offering tailored training that aligns perfectly with industry standards. These programs don't just teach theory—they immerse students in hands-on experiences, allowing them to master the techniques and skills essential for success in the kitchen. 

However, the success of TVET programs hinges on the necessary infrastructure to simulate a work environment, industry-experienced and qualified instructors, well-articulated systems and processes, quality and compliance standards, and an internationally accredited certification. This is where the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA) in Dubai and Abu Dhabi stands out. ICCA's state-of-the-art, award-winning facilities offer an intensive, hands-on, industry-focused, and outcome-driven culinary education that ensures you achieve your goals.

From knife skills to menu planning and delivery at international industry standards, ICCA's practical approach ensures graduates are knowledgeable, confident, and capable in real-world culinary environments to help seamlessly integrate and effectively deliver. This blend of targeted training and experiential learning makes TVET in Culinary Arts at the ICCA indispensable in producing the next generation of Professional Chefs of the desired level.

TVET's Contribution to Skilled Culinary Professionals 

Many chefs in the industry vouch for hands-on training and emphasize the importance of continuous learning in the kitchen. According to industry experts, there's no better training than practising, making mistakes, and learning from those mistakes. 

"It takes the same time and energy to produce a good product as it does to produce a bad one. If you keep that in mind and try to produce consistent quality with passion, there is no stopping. The focus has to be on getting practical knowledge. That's how you learn to do things," says Chef Leslie DSouza, Resort Head Baker at Madinat Jumeirah. 

Chef Andy Cuthbert, General Manager of Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, ICCA Dubai Scholarship Committee Member, Continental Director for Africa and the Middle East at Worldchefs, and President of the Emirates Culinary Guild, had a humble beginning. Starting as a dishwasher, he apprenticed in different restaurants for four years before studying TVET at Boxhill TAFE in Melbourne, Australia. He said the training was excellent, teaching the basics correctly and giving him a solid foundation to build his career. 

"The right qualifications and a solid grounding in the basics are essential in becoming a true Chef. It is not about creating Instagrammable food and food blogging; rather, it's about knowing how to cook correctly," says Andy Cuthbert. 

Benefits of TVET Culinary Programs For Aspiring Chefs

1. Hands-On Training: TVET programs offer technical training with practical, hands-on experience in actual kitchen settings, which is essential for mastering culinary knowledge and skills.

2. Industry-Relevant Curriculum: TVETs offer courses tailored to meet prevailing and emerging industry standards, ensuring students learn times relevant techniques and practices.
3. Job-Ready Skills: Graduates leave TVET programs with the knowledge and skills to start working immediately in professional kitchens. 
4. Expert Instruction: Students learn from experienced chefs and industry professionals, gaining insights from their expertise.

5. Access to Modern Equipment: Good TVET program providers provide access to state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, mirroring professional culinary environments.
6. Strong Industry Connections:
Many TVET institutions partner with restaurants and hotels to help facilitate internships and job placements.
8. Comprehensive Learning: Combining application-focused and outcome-driven theoretical knowledge and practical skills ensures a well-rounded culinary education.
9. Career Advancement: TVET credentials are respected in the industry, opening doors and offering career growth.
10. Innovation and Creativity: TVET Programs encourage innovation and creativity, helping chefs develop their unique culinary style

11. Global Opportunities: A solid TVET education can qualify chefs for opportunities worldwide, helping enhance their career prospects. 

Too good to be true? Let's hear it from TVET students themselves… 

Murtaza Buhrani
Event & Sales Manager, Grand Hyatt, Dubai
Professional Diploma, Cookery

Queen Celestine
Ms Universe- Nigeria
Professional Diploma, Cookery

Sudakshina Iyer
Professional Diploma, Patisserie
Le Cordon Bleu Alumni

These aspiring chefs grow up to become the likes of Anthony Bourdain, Bobby Flay, Vikas Khanna and many more. 

The Celebrity chefs who went to culinary schools

1. Emeril Lagasse, a famous chef, restaurateur and television personality and owner of several restaurants,

2. Anthony Bourdain, the celebrity chef behind the famous New Yorker article,  “Don’t Read Before Eating This”. He was an executive Chef at Brasserie Les Halles in Manhattan, New York, and appeared in TV Shows, like ‘A Cook’s Tour’ and his eponymous, ‘Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. 

3. Julia Child, the American Chef and author, opened her own school just after six months of formal training at a culinary school. She also wrote a book along with her classmates called "Mastering the Art of French Cooking."  

4. Vikas Khanna, Michelin Star Chef, entrepreneur, and an author, he runs Junoon in New York and has recently opened another one, called Bungalow. Khanna is also an author of Sacred Foods of India, Khanna's latest project, is a limited-edition book, of which only 250 copies have been made available.

5. Bobby Flay, the owner and executive chef of several restaurants: Mesa Grill in Las Vegas and the Bahamas; Bar Americain in New York and at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, Connecticut; Bobby Flay Steak in Atlantic City; Gato in New York, and Bobby's Burger Palace in 19 locations across 11 state 

As the culinary industry flourishes, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs will significantly shape skilled professionals ready to meet its demands. Offering quality education, hands-on experience, and an industry-relevant, application-focused, and outcome-driven curriculum.

Internationally renowned TVET institutions such as the ICCA in Dubai and Abu Dhabi empower aspiring chefs, enthusiasts and entrepreneurs with a quality culinary education in state-of-the-art, world-class facilities, honing practical knowledge and skills necessary for success in professional kitchens.  

Ready to embark on your journey towards becoming a culinary professional? Explore our professional programs here, accredited by the internationally renowned City & Guilds, London, and recognised by the Worldchefs. 

This blog is part of the #TalkingTVET/ #EmpowerThroughTVET/ #TVETForChange/ #TVETTheWayForward series. We're excited to explore the dynamic world of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), its impact, and the inspiring stories with you. Join us in discovering the transformative power of TVET, shaping careers and empowering individuals for success! Want to know more about TVET programs at ICCA? Click here to get the details https://www.iccadubai.ae/

Introduction To TVET and Its Significance In The Culinary World