Awagah, Nicholas K (2024) An integrated framework for mentoring artisans in the Ghanaian construction industry. PhD thesis, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Abstract
The construction industry in Ghana is pivotal to the nation's economic development, yet it faces significant challenges related to the skills development and professional growth of construction artisans. This thesis, titled "An Integrated Framework for Mentoring Artisans in the Ghanaian Construction Industry," aims to address these challenges by developing an integrated mentoring framework tailored to the needs of construction artisans in Ghana. The research employs a qualitative method and data collection approach to gather insights from a diverse population, including firm owners, construction managers, Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) experts, and institutions across key regions in Ghana such as the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Volta regions. Interviews were used to explore the current state of mentoring practices, identify gaps, and understand the unique needs of the artisans. Findings reveal that effective mentoring in the construction industry is hindered by factors such as limited access to formal training, inadequate resources, and cultural attitudes toward professional development. To address these issues, the study proposes an integrated mentoring framework that encompasses structured training programmes, peer-to-peer mentoring, and the use of digital tools to facilitate continuous learning and support. The proposed framework is designed to be adaptable and scalable, allowing for implementation across various construction sites and organizations. It emphasizes the importance of integration between industry stakeholders, government bodies, and educational institutions to create a supportive environment for artisan development. Key components of the framework include the establishment of mentorship committees, the development of standardized training materials, and the implementation of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of the mentoring programmes. This thesis contributes to the body of knowledge by providing a practical and evidence-based solution to enhance the skills and career prospects of construction artisans in Ghana. The integrated framework has the potential to improve the overall quality of the workforce, boost productivity, and support the long-term growth of the construction industry in the country. Future research is recommended to evaluate the long-term impact of the framework and explore its applicability in other sectors and regions.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Thesis advisor: | Aigbavboah, Clinton; Thwala, W D and Arthur-aidoo, B M |
| Index terms: | evidence, face, vocational education, owner, effectiveness, construction industry, programme, economic development, interview, integration, qualitative method, Ghana, productivity, body of knowledge, professional development, construction site, monitoring, skills development, construction manager, population, Accra, implementation, mentoring, career |
| Subjects: | professional education, knowledge management, demography, project controls, Geography, evaluation and assessment methods, psychology, data collection methods, professional development, personnel development, contractual arrangements, management, performance management, profession, organizational analysis, industry analysis, economic development, sociology, work location, training, control systems, research design and methodology |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Quality Management, Stakeholder Management, Sustainability, Urban Studies, Procurement, Site Management, Geographical Context, Information Management, Education, Time Control, Human Resources, Roles and Professions, Organizational Design, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here