With contextualization of human capital theories, and investment in human capital, this study examined the mediator role of cooperative training in the relationship between training materials and graduates' employability in vocational education with the use of a mixed-method research design. With questionnaire and interview instruments, 148 trainer-participants and 15 Key Informants participated from four Polytechnic Colleges in Addis Ababa. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic analysis. The results showed that the training environment in the Polytechnic Colleges was not equipped with the necessary training materials. Both training materials and cooperative training have a positive relationship with graduates' employability. Moreover, the findings indicated that significant positive effect of cooperative training on the direct influence of training materials on graduates' employability. The findings have significant implications for vocational providers, policy makers, and employers' insights into maximizing return on investment in vocational education. © 2025 Brian Towers (BRITOW) and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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