The Effect of Non-cognitive Skills on Comprehensive Capacities of Workers: KAIZEN Education and Workers of Garment Industry in Ethiopia

Abstract

In this paper, we analyze the factors which determine the levels of self-rated non-cognitive skills of workers and their occupational. The former skills were grasped by the questionnaire which ask workers to evaluate their attitude at work with five-point Likert scale. Meanwhile, the latter were captured by the practical skills tests designed by the authors and graded by the employers and trainers.

Based on the factor analysis of questionnaire responses, we found that the non-cognitive skills which are closely associated with their performance in work are the attitude such as to maintain the workplace clean and tidy, capacity to detect problems with the machine, report to and follow the guidance of supervisors. Such attributes of garment workers'non-cognitive skills are similar to what Kaizen movement has been promoting, particularly under the name of 5S - Seiri (sort-out), Seiton (set in order), Seisou (cleaning), Seiketsu (neatness), and Shitsuke (discipline).

The determinants of non-cognitive (or Kaizen) skills and vocational skills are distinct. Vocational skills are not much influenced by the workers'previous work experience or educational background. They are rather a set of skills which can be formed through on-the-job training and short clash course in the factories. Whereas, non-cognitive (or Kaizen) skills are significantly related to previous work experience and education at TVET (technical and vocational education and training) institutions. We argue that non-cognitive skills are acquired through the exposure to environment which transmit values to appreciate certain work ethics and attitude, which takes time and planned arrangements. Given this, the role of policy-making and system design would be significant to develop skilled workforce, who not only conduct designated tasks but also analyze the situation and solve problems with their own judgment.