An investigation of informal education’s contribution to the development of soft skills among undergraduates in Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State
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Background of the study
In today’s competitive academic and professional landscape, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are increasingly recognized as critical for success. In Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State, informal education has emerged as an innovative approach to complement formal academic curricula by focusing on the development of these essential soft skills among undergraduates (Okeke, 2023). Informal education in this context is delivered through internships, peer mentoring, community projects, and extracurricular workshops, providing students with opportunities to learn in a less structured environment. Such methods encourage experiential learning and personal interaction, which are vital for the holistic development of soft skills (Eze, 2024).
The integration of informal education initiatives in higher institutions in Ankpa has been driven by the need to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical workplace requirements. Informal learning environments allow students to engage in real-world problem-solving activities, thereby enhancing their communication and critical thinking abilities (Nwankwo, 2025). Moreover, these experiences help undergraduates develop interpersonal skills that are often overlooked in traditional lecture-based settings. The emphasis on teamwork and leadership in informal education settings has been shown to increase students’ confidence and adaptability, qualities that are essential in today’s dynamic job market (Okeke, 2023).
However, despite the potential benefits, the contribution of informal education to soft skills development is not uniformly realized across institutions. Variations in program quality, resource availability, and faculty involvement have led to inconsistent outcomes. Some universities have successfully integrated informal learning components into their curricula, while others continue to struggle with logistical challenges and a lack of strategic direction (Eze, 2024). These inconsistencies underscore the need for a systematic evaluation of informal education’s impact on soft skills acquisition among undergraduates. As higher education continues to evolve, the effective incorporation of informal learning strategies is critical for producing well-rounded graduates who are equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce (Nwankwo, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized importance of soft skills in today’s globalized economy, many undergraduate programs in Ankpa Local Government Area do not sufficiently foster these competencies. The traditional educational model, which prioritizes academic performance and theoretical knowledge, often neglects the practical experiences necessary for soft skills development. Informal education has been introduced as a remedial measure; however, its implementation is fraught with challenges. Key problems include inconsistent program delivery, limited institutional support, and a lack of clear frameworks to assess the impact of informal learning on soft skills development (Okeke, 2023).
Furthermore, there is a noticeable disparity in the quality and reach of informal education initiatives across different institutions. While some universities have adopted comprehensive strategies that integrate internships, peer mentoring, and community engagement, others rely on ad hoc programs that do not provide continuous or systematic skill development (Eze, 2024). The lack of standardized guidelines for evaluating the outcomes of these programs further complicates efforts to understand their true impact on students’ employability and personal growth (Nwankwo, 2025). In addition, cultural attitudes and resource constraints pose additional hurdles, preventing some institutions from fully harnessing the potential of informal education to develop soft skills. Addressing these issues is essential for aligning educational practices with the evolving needs of the job market and ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for professional challenges.
Objectives of the study:
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To evaluate the contribution of informal education to the development of soft skills among undergraduates.
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To identify challenges in implementing informal learning initiatives in higher education.
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To recommend strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of informal education in soft skills development.
Research questions:
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How does informal education influence the development of soft skills among undergraduates?
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What challenges do institutions face in integrating informal learning strategies into their curricula?
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What best practices can improve the effectiveness of informal education in soft skills acquisition?
Research Hypotheses:
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Informal education positively impacts the development of soft skills among undergraduates.
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Resource limitations and inconsistent implementation hinder the effectiveness of informal education programs.
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Institutional support and structured frameworks enhance the impact of informal education on soft skills development.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it investigates the contribution of informal education to the development of essential soft skills among undergraduates in Ankpa Local Government Area. The findings will offer valuable insights for educators, administrators, and policymakers seeking to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical skill development. By identifying challenges and proposing effective strategies, the research aims to enhance informal education initiatives and better prepare graduates for the modern workforce. Ultimately, this study will contribute to improved educational practices and enhanced employability for students.
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to evaluating the impact of informal education on soft skills development among undergraduates in Ankpa Local Government Area, focusing on local university initiatives, resource constraints, and institutional support mechanisms.
Definitions of terms:
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Informal education: Learning through non-traditional, experiential methods outside formal classroom instruction.
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Soft skills: Non-technical interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
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Undergraduates: Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program.
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