Perceptions and Motivations of Students Entering the Technical-Vocational Livelihood – Agri-Fishery Arts Track in Northern Philippines

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the perceptions and motivations of incoming senior high school students in choosing the Technical–Vocational Livelihood–Agri-Fishery Arts (TVL–AFA) specialisation in Northern Philippines. A descriptive survey research design was employed and conducted in a selected public secondary school in the Schools Division of Laoag City during the first semester of School Year 2025–2026 (August to November 2025). The respondents consisted of 35 incoming senior high school students who were purposively selected, as the school is the only institution in the division offering the TVL–AFA specialisation. Data were gathered using a self-administered questionnaire comprising demographic items and 35 Likert-scale statements measuring perceptions (career attractiveness, income prospects, social prestige, self-efficacy, and family and peer influence) and motivation. Descriptive statistics, particularly weighted mean, were used for data analysis. Results revealed that students generally held positive perceptions toward agriculture, with strong agreement on career attractiveness, income prospects, and social prestige, and agreement on self-efficacy and family and peer influence. Students also demonstrated a positive level of motivation in choosing the TVL–AFA specialisation. These findings indicate a shifting mindset among students, recognising agriculture as a viable, respectable, and future-oriented career path. In conclusion, the positive perceptions and motivations suggest strong student readiness for the TVL–AFA track, highlighting the importance of sustained instructional support, experiential learning opportunities, and strengthened industry linkages to further enhance engagement and career preparedness in agri-fishery education.