DUAL EDUCATION: STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF WORKFORCE TRAINING

Abstract

This article examines dual education as a strategic framework for workforce development, addressing the persistent global skills gap. It argues that dual education, which systematically integrates theoretical learning in institutions with practical training in companies, must be managed as a holistic national strategy rather than a mere educational tactic. Through a systematic literature review and thematic analysis, the paper identifies the core pillars of an effective dual system: robust public-private partnerships, a standardized legal and financial framework, competency-based curriculum design, and rigorous quality assurance. The discussion elaborates on the strategic benefits for all stakeholders—enhanced graduate employability, increased enterprise productivity and innovation, and socio-economic resilience for the state. Concurrently, it addresses significant implementation challenges, including high initial investment, coordination complexity, and the risk of curricula becoming overly narrow. The conclusion posits that the strategic management of dual education is indispensable for building a future-ready workforce. This requires sustained political commitment, institutional capacity building, and a cultural shift towards valuing vocational excellence. Evidence-based recommendations are provided for policymakers, educational institutions, and industry leaders to foster a synergistic ecosystem for sustainable human capital development.