The effect of informal education on entrepreneurial skills acquisition among undergraduates in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State
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Background of the study
Informal education has garnered significant attention as an alternative learning approach that fosters practical skills beyond the confines of formal classroom instruction. In Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, informal education initiatives—ranging from mentorship programs, community workshops, to peer-to-peer learning—are increasingly recognized for their role in enhancing entrepreneurial skills among undergraduates. These programs provide hands-on experience, real-world problem solving, and networking opportunities that are crucial for entrepreneurship. Unlike the traditional curriculum, which often emphasizes theoretical knowledge, informal education offers an experiential learning environment that encourages innovation and risk-taking. As a result, students are better equipped to navigate the complexities of modern business environments (Ibrahim, 2023).
The importance of entrepreneurial skills in today’s global economy cannot be overstated. In a rapidly changing business landscape, undergraduates are expected to not only possess academic knowledge but also demonstrate the ability to innovate, lead, and adapt. Informal education plays a pivotal role in filling the gaps left by formal education systems by providing dynamic learning platforms that simulate real business challenges. Workshops, networking events, and collaborative projects allow students to develop critical skills such as problem-solving, creative thinking, and strategic planning. These experiences often lead to a more robust entrepreneurial mindset, fostering a generation of graduates who are well-prepared to launch and sustain their ventures (Musa, 2024).
In Jos North, the entrepreneurial ecosystem is rapidly evolving, driven in part by community-led informal educational initiatives that aim to cultivate practical business acumen. This study seeks to investigate how informal education impacts the acquisition of entrepreneurial skills among undergraduates. It will explore the various mechanisms through which informal learning influences entrepreneurial attitudes and capabilities, taking into account factors such as mentorship quality, access to resources, and the socio-economic context. Moreover, the research will consider the challenges faced by students in leveraging informal education for entrepreneurial success, including limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and cultural barriers that may inhibit innovative thinking (Suleiman, 2025).
By integrating theoretical insights with empirical data, this study aims to contribute to the broader discourse on education and entrepreneurship. It will provide evidence-based recommendations on how to optimize informal education strategies to enhance entrepreneurial skill development, ultimately supporting economic growth and innovation within the region.
Statement of the problem
Despite the growing interest in informal education as a catalyst for entrepreneurial skill development, there is insufficient empirical evidence on its effectiveness among undergraduates in Jos North Local Government Area. Many undergraduates encounter challenges in translating theoretical business concepts into practical entrepreneurial ventures. Although informal education initiatives provide alternative learning platforms, there is a lack of standardized metrics to evaluate the extent to which these experiences contribute to skill acquisition. This gap in the literature poses a significant problem: educational institutions and policymakers are unable to fully ascertain the value of informal education in fostering entrepreneurial competencies (Chinwe, 2023).
The informal nature of these educational programs often leads to variability in quality and delivery, which in turn creates disparities in skill acquisition among students. Some undergraduates may benefit significantly from mentorship and hands-on experiences, while others might not have equal access to quality informal learning environments. This inconsistency is exacerbated by factors such as limited funding, inadequate training of mentors, and the absence of a structured curriculum that aligns informal learning with entrepreneurial outcomes. As a consequence, undergraduates in Jos North may find themselves inadequately prepared to meet the demands of the modern business landscape (Abubakar, 2024).
Furthermore, the interplay between informal and formal education remains poorly understood. There is a critical need to investigate whether informal educational practices complement formal business studies or if they operate in isolation. The lack of a cohesive framework linking informal learning to tangible entrepreneurial skills further complicates efforts to improve entrepreneurial education. Addressing these challenges is essential for designing effective interventions that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical business acumen, thereby enhancing overall entrepreneurial readiness among undergraduates (Fatima, 2025).
Objectives of the study
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To evaluate the impact of informal education on the entrepreneurial skills acquisition of undergraduates.
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To identify the key factors that facilitate or hinder effective skill development through informal education.
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To recommend strategies for integrating informal learning with formal entrepreneurial curricula.
Research questions
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How does informal education influence entrepreneurial skill development among undergraduates in Jos North?
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What factors affect the quality and impact of informal educational initiatives on entrepreneurship?
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How can formal and informal educational strategies be effectively integrated to enhance entrepreneurial competencies?
Research Hypotheses
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H₁: Undergraduates who participate in informal education programs exhibit higher entrepreneurial skills than those who do not.
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H₂: Access to quality mentorship significantly improves entrepreneurial outcomes in informal educational settings.
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H₃: Integration of informal education with formal entrepreneurial courses leads to better skill acquisition.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it bridges the gap between theoretical and practical aspects of entrepreneurship education. By highlighting the role of informal education in developing entrepreneurial skills, the research offers valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. The findings will inform the design of more effective, integrated educational programs that combine formal curricula with practical learning opportunities, ultimately contributing to enhanced entrepreneurial success among undergraduates (Okeke, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to assessing the effect of informal education on entrepreneurial skills acquisition among undergraduates in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State. It does not cover other educational levels or regions.
Definitions of terms
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Informal Education: Learning acquired outside the structured, formal education system, often through community or self-directed activities.
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Entrepreneurial Skills: Abilities required to identify business opportunities, innovate, and execute strategies for creating and managing ventures.
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Undergraduates: Students enrolled in a post-secondary education program leading to a bachelor’s degree.
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