ADDRESSING SKILLS GAP IN TECHNICAL EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF ALEX EKWUEME FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, NDUFU-ALIKE IKWO

By O.C. Amoge

Abstract: The study examined skills gap in Technical Education. A descriptive survey research design was employed. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Soft Skills in Technical Education and Employability Outcomes Questionnaire (SSTEEOQ).” The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25 for accuracy and clarity in data interpretation. Empirical data were gathered through the questionnaires that were administered on Technical education undergraduates (100- 300 levels) and 10 technical education lecturers. Findings revealed that: ICT skills significantly influence the employability of graduates in technical education, Communication skills significantly affect employability among graduates in technical education and Management skills play a critical role in shaping graduate employability in technical education. Conclusively, the curriculum of technical education must be structured to be more relevant to the needs and status of the Nigerian society. This will ensure national development.
Keywords: Skills Gap, Technical Education, Employability and Communication