NBTE'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF SKILLED MANPOWER THROUGH TECHNICAL EDUCATION

 NBTE'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF SKILLED MANPOWER THROUGH TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Background of the Study

The development of skilled manpower is critical to the economic growth and industrialization of any nation, especially in the context of developing countries like Nigeria. Skilled manpower refers to individuals who possess the necessary technical skills, knowledge, and competencies required to perform specific tasks in various industries (Ogunode, 2017). Technical education serves as the primary means through which these skills are imparted, and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) plays a central role in regulating and promoting this form of education in Nigeria.

 

Since its establishment in 1977, the NBTE has been tasked with the responsibility of overseeing the standards of technical education in Nigeria. This includes accrediting technical institutions, developing curricula, and ensuring that the education provided aligns with the needs of the labor market (Abubakar & Sadiq, 2019). The board has introduced various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of technical education, thereby contributing to the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving the nation’s economic development (Akinyele, 2018).

 

Despite these efforts, Nigeria continues to face challenges related to the development of skilled manpower. Issues such as inadequate funding, outdated curricula, and a disconnect between educational institutions and industry needs have hindered the effective development of skilled manpower through technical education (Nwogu & Umeh, 2020). This study seeks to evaluate the contributions of the NBTE to the development of skilled manpower in Nigeria, focusing on the board's policies, initiatives, and their impact on the technical education sector.

 

Statement of the Problem

The development of skilled manpower in Nigeria has been hampered by various challenges, despite the efforts of the NBTE to enhance technical education. These challenges include outdated curricula that do not align with current industry needs, inadequate funding of technical institutions, and a lack of collaboration between educational institutions and industries (Adeoye, 2018). As a result, many graduates of technical institutions in Nigeria are not adequately equipped with the skills required by employers, leading to high levels of unemployment and underemployment (Ezeani, 2020).

 

The persistence of these challenges raises questions about the effectiveness of the NBTE in fulfilling its mandate to develop skilled manpower through technical education. This study aims to address these concerns by evaluating the contributions of the NBTE to the development of skilled manpower in Nigeria, with a focus on the board's policies, initiatives, and their impact on the quality of technical education.

 

Objectives of the Study

To assess the effectiveness of NBTE policies in developing skilled manpower through technical education in Nigeria.

To evaluate the impact of NBTE initiatives on the quality of technical education and the employability of graduates.

To identify the challenges faced by the NBTE in developing skilled manpower and suggest possible solutions.

 

Research Questions

How effective are NBTE policies in developing skilled manpower through technical education in Nigeria?

What impact have NBTE initiatives had on the quality of technical education and the employability of graduates?

What challenges does the NBTE face in developing skilled manpower, and what are the possible solutions?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant for various stakeholders, including the NBTE, technical institutions, educators, and policymakers. It provides valuable insights into the contributions of the NBTE to the development of skilled manpower in Nigeria, highlighting areas of success and challenges that need to be addressed. The findings of the study can inform policy decisions and strategic planning aimed at improving the quality of technical education and ensuring that graduates possess the skills required by the labor market.

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study focuses on the contributions of the NBTE to the development of skilled manpower through technical education in Nigeria. It examines the board's policies, initiatives, and their impact on the quality of technical education and the employability of graduates. The study is limited to technical institutions accredited by the NBTE and does not cover other forms of education or institutions not under the board's jurisdiction. Additionally, the study is constrained by the availability of data and the willingness of stakeholders to participate in interviews and surveys.

 

Definitions of Terms

Skilled Manpower: Individuals who possess the technical skills, knowledge, and competencies required to perform specific tasks in various industries.

Technical Education: Education that prepares individuals for specific trades, crafts, and careers at various levels, including professional, technical, and vocational education.

NBTE: National Board for Technical Education, the regulatory body responsible for overseeing technical education in Nigeria.

 

References

Abubakar, S., & Sadiq, M. (2019). The role of NBTE in developing skilled manpower in Nigeria. Journal of Vocational and Technical Education, 14(2), 58-67.

Adeoye, F. A. (2018). Challenges of technical education in Nigeria: Implications for skilled manpower development. Nigerian Journal of Educational Research and Development, 10(3), 35-45.

Akinyele, R. (2018). Technical education and manpower development in Nigeria: The role of NBTE. Journal of Technical Education and Training, 9(1), 29-40.

Ezeani, N. S. (2020). The impact of technical education on employment in Nigeria: A critical analysis. International Journal of Educational Development, 15(4), 77-89.

Nwogu, U. J., & Umeh, P. E. (2020). Bridging the gap between technical education and industry needs: The Nigerian experience. Journal of Industrial Education, 12(3), 64-72.

Ogunode, N. J. (2017). Enhancing technical education in Nigeria: The role of government and stakeholders. African Journal of Educational Management, 11(2), 20-30.