DEVELOPING ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAPACITIES FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT: THE ROLE OF VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Nigeria faces a persistent youth unemployment crisis, driven largely by a mismatch between academic education and labor market needs. This study explores how Vocational and Technical Education (VTE) can be restructured to enhance youth entrepreneurial capacities and contribute meaningfully to national development. The primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of VTE in preparing students for self-employment and job creation, while identifying structural challenges limiting its impact. A mixed-methods research design was employed, incorporating policy review, content analysis of literature, and empirical data collected from 120 VTE students across two institutions in Kogi State. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and regression analysis. The findings revealed that 71% of respondents held a positive perception of VTE, 88% believed it could alleviate poverty, and 78% expressed an interest in post-training entrepreneurship. However, major constraints were identified, including lack of industry internship opportunities, outdated curricula, insufficient practical exposure, and weak ICT integration. Regression results indicated that practical training and entrepreneurship education significantly predicted entrepreneurial intent. Comparative analysis with global models such as Germany’s dual system and South Korea’s industry-linked training highlighted best practices currently missing in Nigeria’s VTE landscape. The study concludes that while VTE holds strong potential for youth empowerment, it requires urgent reforms in curriculum design, industry partnership, and funding mechanisms. The research recommends integrating ICT and innovation into VTE curricula, establishing public–private partnerships, enhancing institutional infrastructure, and promoting VTE as a first-choice career path. With strategic intervention, VTE can serve as a catalyst for youth entrepreneurship, job creation, and long-term economic transformation in Nigeria