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EFFICACIES OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND SKILLS ACQUISITION PROGRAMME IN RELATION TO INDUSTRIAL SECTOR GROWTH IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the efficacy of vocational training and skills acquisition programs in fostering industrial sector growth in Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted, and a structured questionnaire was designed to collect data from a sample of 333 respondents, including vocational trainees, industry employers, and policymakers across Lagos, Kano, and Rivers States. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics to summarize demographic characteristics and response distributions, while a one-sample t-test was used to evaluate the three stated hypotheses. The findings revealed that vocational training programs significantly contributed to industrial sector growth (t = 15.37, p < 0.001), with 78.9% of respondents affirming their positive impact on productivity. However, challenges such as inadequate funding (78.1% agreement), outdated curricula, and weak industry collaboration hindered optimal outcomes. Although a moderate relationship existed between vocational training curricula and industry skill demands (t = 6.89, p < 0.001), gaps in emerging technology integration and employer involvement were evident. The study concluded that while vocational training remains a vital driver of industrial development, strategic interventions—including increased funding, curriculum modernization, and stronger public-private partnerships—are essential to maximize its potential. These recommendations aim to enhance the alignment between skills acquisition programs and labor market needs, ultimately supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification and employment goals.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Vocational training and skills acquisition programmes play a crucial role in human capital development, especially in developing economies like Nigeria where they serve as vital tools for equipping individuals with practical skills that enhance employability, entrepreneurship, and overall productivity across various industrial sectors (Becker, 2022). The Nigerian government, recognizing the importance of these programmes, has collaborated with private institutions and international organizations to implement numerous vocational and skills acquisition initiatives aimed at addressing the persistent issue of unemployment while simultaneously stimulating industrial growth (Federal Government of Nigeria [FGN] et al., 2023). However, despite these concerted efforts, Nigeria’s industrial sector continues to grapple with significant challenges including low productivity levels, a shortage of adequately skilled labor, and an over-reliance on imported expertise, all of which hinder the sector’s potential for growth and development (Ik, 2024).

The concept of human capital development through vocational training finds its theoretical foundation in the work of Becker (2022), who posits that investment in skills development directly correlates with increased productivity and economic growth. This theory holds particular relevance for Nigeria, where vocational training programmes are designed to bridge the evident gap between formal education and the actual demands of the labor market by providing hands-on, practical skills in various trades such as welding, carpentry, information technology, and agro-processing (Akpama et al., 2021). The importance of these programmes becomes even more pronounced when considering Nigeria’s high youth unemployment rates, which have been exacerbated by the mismatch between the outputs of formal education systems and the actual needs of industries (Awogbenle & Iwuamadi, 2020).

In response to these challenges, the Nigerian government has launched several skills acquisition initiatives, including the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and the N-Power programme, both of which aim to enhance workforce readiness and employability among Nigerian youths (Idoko, 2024). Complementing these government efforts are private sector-led initiatives such as those by Andela (2023), which focus on equipping young Nigerians with in-demand technological skills including software development and data analysis, thereby preparing them to meet both local and global labor market demands. International organizations have also played a significant role in supporting Nigeria’s vocational training landscape, with the World Bank, for instance, implementing the Skills for Competitiveness and Employability Programme to strengthen the country’s skills development framework (FGN et al., 2023). Despite these multi-stakeholder interventions, persistent challenges remain in ensuring that vocational training curricula remain aligned with the evolving needs of industries (Brunello & Wruuck, 2021).

The industrial sector in Nigeria continues to face numerous obstacles that undermine its growth potential, with perhaps the most pressing being the acute shortage of skilled labor coupled with the prevalence of skills mismatch in the labor market (Dibeh et al., 2019). This mismatch manifests when vocational training programmes fail to adequately prepare trainees for the actual demands of key industries such as manufacturing, construction, and technology, resulting in the paradoxical situation where high unemployment rates persist among vocational training graduates despite industries reporting difficulties in finding suitably skilled workers (Habiyaremye et al., 2022). This disconnect between training outputs and industry needs points to systemic issues in Nigeria’s vocational education framework that require urgent attention and reform.

Several factors contribute to the current inefficiencies in Nigeria’s vocational training system. Chief among these is the chronic underfunding of vocational education institutions, which has led to inadequate infrastructure and a lack of modern training equipment, thereby limiting the ability of trainees to gain the practical, hands-on experience that is so crucial for their future employability (Hysong, 2022). Furthermore, the weak collaboration between training institutions and industries means that many vocational programmes are developed without sufficient input from potential employers, resulting in curricula that do not reflect current industry trends or anticipate future skills requirements (Graham-Leviss, 2024). This lack of synergy between educators and employers creates a situation where even graduates of vocational programmes often find themselves ill-prepared for the realities of the workplace, necessitating additional training and adjustment periods that could have been avoided with better programme design and implementation.

The need for closer alignment between vocational training and industrial needs has never been more pressing, particularly as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues (Bojadjieva et al., 2022). Research has consistently shown that countries with robust Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems tend to experience higher levels of industrial productivity and lower unemployment rates (Hart et al., 2020). For Nigeria to replicate this success, several key reforms are necessary. First, there needs to be a comprehensive review and updating of vocational training curricula to incorporate emerging skills and technologies such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing techniques (Faithpraise et al., 2023). Second, stronger partnerships must be forged between training institutions and industries to ensure that programmes are designed with direct input from employers and are responsive to the changing needs of the labor market (Finch et al., 2023). Third, increased investment in training infrastructure is essential to provide trainees with access to modern equipment and technologies that reflect real-world working environments (Baba, 2023).

The potential impact of effective vocational training programmes on employment generation and economic diversification in Nigeria cannot be overstated. When properly designed and implemented, these programmes can serve as powerful tools for reducing youth unemployment by creating clear pathways to decent employment and fostering entrepreneurship (Adofu & Ocheja, 2023). Evidence from successful interventions, such as Lagos State’s various empowerment programmes, demonstrates how well-structured vocational training initiatives can significantly improve employment outcomes for participants (Ikechukwu, 2022). These programmes not only equip participants with technical skills but also often incorporate elements of business management and entrepreneurship training, thereby enabling graduates to either secure employment or establish their own small businesses, both of which contribute to economic growth and development.

However, the current state of vocational training in Nigeria suggests that much work remains to be done to fully realize this potential. The persistence of skills mismatch, inadequate funding, and weak industry linkages continue to undermine the effectiveness of vocational training programmes (Danyaro & Awang, 2024). Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that involves all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, private sector employers, and international development partners. Only through such coordinated efforts can Nigeria develop a vocational training system that truly meets the needs of its industrial sector and contributes meaningfully to the country’s economic transformation.

The importance of vocational training in Nigeria’s development agenda becomes even more apparent when considering the country’s demographic profile. With a large and growing youth population, Nigeria faces both a challenge and an opportunity in terms of human capital development (Bojadjieva et al., 2022). On one hand, the large youth population represents a potential demographic dividend that could drive economic growth if properly harnessed. On the other hand, failure to provide this growing workforce with relevant skills could exacerbate unemployment and social instability. Vocational training programmes, when properly designed and implemented, can serve as a critical mechanism for channeling this youthful energy into productive economic activities, thereby turning a potential demographic challenge into a valuable asset for national development.

The global context further underscores the urgency of reforming Nigeria’s vocational training system. In an increasingly interconnected world where technological advancements are rapidly transforming industries and labor markets, countries that fail to adapt their skills development systems risk being left behind (Faithpraise et al., 2023). The Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things, is reshaping the nature of work and the skills required to succeed in the modern economy. Nigeria’s vocational training system must evolve to prepare workers for these new realities, ensuring that the country’s workforce remains competitive in both domestic and global labor markets.

Moreover, the potential benefits of effective vocational training extend beyond immediate employment outcomes. By providing individuals with marketable skills, these programmes can contribute to poverty reduction, social inclusion, and overall improvements in living standards (Akpama et al., 2021). Skilled workers tend to earn higher wages, enjoy greater job security, and have more opportunities for career advancement compared to their unskilled counterparts. At the macroeconomic level, a skilled workforce can attract foreign investment, boost productivity, and enhance the competitiveness of domestic industries in global markets (Brunello & Wruuck, 2021). These broader developmental impacts highlight why vocational training should be a priority in Nigeria’s national development strategy.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite numerous vocational training and skills acquisition programs implemented in Nigeria, the country’s industrial sector continues to face significant challenges, including low productivity, high unemployment rates, and persistent skills gaps (Faithpraise et al., 2023). While previous studies have examined various aspects of vocational training in Nigeria, critical gaps remain in understanding the precise nature of the mismatch between skills supplied by training programs and those demanded by industries (Brunello & Wruuck, 2021). Existing research has largely focused on either the supply side (training institutions) or demand side (industries) in isolation, failing to provide a comprehensive analysis of the interaction between these two crucial components of the skills ecosystem (Danyaro & Awang, 2024).

A significant research gap exists in understanding how Nigeria’s vocational training curricula align with current and emerging industry needs, particularly in key growth sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and information technology (Ik, 2024). While some studies have identified general skills mismatches (Dibeh et al., 2019), there is limited empirical evidence on the specific skill gaps that hinder industrial growth in Nigeria’s unique context. Furthermore, existing research has not sufficiently explored the perspectives of industry employers regarding their satisfaction with vocational training graduates’ competencies (Hysong, 2022), nor has it adequately examined the institutional and policy factors that contribute to the persistent disconnect between training providers and industries (Graham-Leviss, 2024).

Another critical gap in the literature concerns the effectiveness of different vocational training models in the Nigerian context. While international best practices in technical and vocational education have been documented (Bojadjieva et al., 2022), there is insufficient research on how these models can be effectively adapted to Nigeria’s specific industrial and cultural context (Faithpraise et al., 2023). Additionally, most studies have focused on government-led initiatives, with limited attention to private sector involvement in skills development (Andela, 2023), despite growing recognition of its importance in addressing skills gaps.

The temporal dimension of skills development represents another under-researched area. While some studies have examined current skills needs (Habiyaremye et al., 2022), there is little research anticipating future skill requirements in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape (Finch et al., 2023). This gap is particularly concerning given the accelerating pace of technological change and its impact on workforce requirements across all sectors.

Finally, existing research has not sufficiently explored the intersection between vocational training effectiveness and broader industrial policy frameworks (Baba, 2023). There is a need for studies that examine how vocational training programs can be better integrated with national industrial development strategies to maximize their impact on sectoral growth and economic diversification (Hart et al., 2020). This study aims to address these critical gaps by providing a comprehensive analysis of vocational training efficacy in relation to Nigeria’s industrial sector growth.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The study aims to achieve the following objectives:

1. To assess the impact of vocational training and skills acquisition programmes on industrial sector growth in Nigeria.

2. To examine the alignment between vocational training curricula and the skill demands of Nigeria’s industrial sector.

3. To identify the challenges hindering the effectiveness of vocational training programmes in enhancing industrial productivity.

1.4 Research Questions

The study will address the following research questions:

1. To what extent do vocational training and skills acquisition programmes contribute to industrial sector growth in Nigeria?

2. How well do the curricula of vocational training programmes align with the skill requirements of Nigeria’s industrial sector?

3. What are the major challenges affecting the efficacy of vocational training programmes in fostering industrial development?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The study will test the following hypotheses:

1. Vocational training and skills acquisition programmes have no significant impact on industrial sector growth in Nigeria.

2. There is no significant relationship between vocational training curricula and the skill demands of Nigeria’s industrial sector.

3. Inadequate funding and infrastructure do not significantly hinder the effectiveness of vocational training programmes.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study carries important implications for various stakeholders working to strengthen Nigeria’s vocational training system and industrial sector. For government leaders and policymakers, the research offers practical insights that can guide decisions on improving skills development programs to better match industry requirements. The findings will help shape policies that effectively address the country’s skills gap while supporting industrial growth through targeted workforce development initiatives.

Vocational training institutions stand to gain valuable guidance from this study’s identification of current shortcomings in skills education. The research provides concrete suggestions for updating curricula and teaching methods to ensure graduates acquire relevant, marketable skills that meet employer expectations. Industry representatives will benefit from a clearer understanding of how vocational training programs can serve as reliable sources of skilled workers to enhance productivity and operational efficiency.

For individuals considering vocational education, the study demonstrates how specific skills training can lead to meaningful employment opportunities or successful entrepreneurship ventures. By highlighting the real-world value of different vocational paths, the research helps potential trainees make informed choices about their skills development. The academic community gains from this study’s contribution to knowledge about effective vocational training models in developing economies, particularly their role in supporting industrial growth and economic diversification.

The comprehensive nature of this research provides a valuable resource for all parties working to strengthen the connection between skills development and industrial needs in Nigeria. By addressing multiple perspectives – from policy to practice – the study offers actionable insights that can improve vocational training outcomes while supporting broader economic development goals. The findings have particular relevance as Nigeria seeks to harness its demographic dividend through job creation and industrial expansion, making this research timely and practically significant for national development efforts.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on vocational training and skills acquisition programmes in Nigeria and their impact on industrial sector growth. The research will cover selected vocational training centers, industries, and government policies within the last decade (2013–2023). The study will primarily examine sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and agro-processing, which are key drivers of industrial growth.

1.8 Operational Definition of Key Terms

Vocational Training: Formal or informal education aimed at equipping individuals with practical skills for specific trades or professions.

Skills Acquisition Programme: Structured initiatives designed to teach individuals employable skills, often through hands-on training.

Industrial Sector Growth: The expansion and development of industries, measured by increased production, employment, and technological advancement.

Human Capital Development: The process of improving workforce skills and knowledge to enhance economic productivity.

Curriculum Alignment: The degree to which training programmes meet the skill demands of industries.

Employability: The ability of individuals to secure and retain jobs based on their skills and competencies.

Productivity: The efficiency of labor and capital in producing goods and services within the industrial sector.

Economic Diversification: The shift from a mono-product (oil-dependent) economy to multiple sectors, including manufacturing and agro-processing.