In view of steadily rising expectations on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) systems the authors ask, ‘What would it take to unleash the potential of TVET systems?’ An integrated analytical approach is proposed through which economic growth, social equity and sustainability perspectives can be strategically and flexibly combined, according to context, so as to address contemporary policy concerns such as youth unemployment, gender disparities and climate change. Policy-makers and other stakeholders may use this approach for the analysis and assessment of TVET systems, to identify appropriate strategies and key enablers for their transformation.