DEVELOPING ALTERNATIVES TO WIHITE COLLAR JOBS THROUGHEFFECTIVE TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

This study explores the transformative potential of Technical and Vocational Education (TVE) as a strategic tool for addressing youth unemployment and driving sustainable economic development in Nigeria. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 54 academic staff across the Schools of Engineering, Environmental Technology, and Arts and Industrial Design at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja. Both primary and secondary data sources informed the study, with descriptive and inferential statistics including Chi-square analysis were used for interpretation. Findings affirm that TVE contributes significantly to job creation, poverty reduction, and human capital development. However, its effectiveness is constrained by systemic barriers such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, weak policy enforcement, outdated curricula, and persistent societal stigma. The study emphasizes that addressing these challenges requires a coordinated, multi-stakeholder reform agenda. Recommendations include increased public investment, curriculum-industry alignment, enhanced teacher development, strengthened public-private partnerships, and nationwide awareness campaigns to reposition vocational education as a respected and viable career pathway. If comprehensively implemented, these strategies can elevate TVE as a cornerstone for inclusive growth, youth empowerment, and long-term national development in Nigeria.