AWARENESS OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMMES FOR MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

Abstract

Despite various government efforts to promote technical education in Nigeria, the sector continues to face  challenges that hinder its contribution to manpower development. This study investigated the awareness  of technical education programmes for manpower development in Nigeria, focusing on its challenges and  possible solutions. A descriptive research design was adopted, and data were collected through  questionnaires on awareness, challenges, and strategies for improving technical education. The study  population comprised 432 students from five government technical colleges in Lagos State: Epe, Ikorodu,  Agidingbi, Ado-Soba, and Ikotun. Using a stratified random sampling technique, 109 students were  selected as respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation,  and percentage. Findings revealed a low level of awareness of technical education programmes (X̅= 2.08;  S.D = .73); major challenges including policy inconsistency, lack of continuous teacher development,  poorly equipped workshops and laboratories, shortage of modern machines and tools, obsolete syllabi,  mismatch of curriculum and labour market needs, and lack of awareness; and found improved government  advocacy, non-governmental support, and equal opportunities for vocational graduates as major strategies  to improve technical education (75.3%; 68.8%; 66.1%). It concluded that low awareness and multiple  challenges hinder technical education, limiting its crucial role in Nigeria’s manpower development. The  study therefore recommends stronger policies, better infrastructure, and enhanced public awareness.