An evaluation of technical education as a solution to skill shortages in Kanam Local Government Area, Plateau State
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Background of the study
Technical education has increasingly been recognized as a vital mechanism for addressing the pervasive skill shortages that undermine economic growth in many developing regions. In Kanam Local Government Area, Plateau State, the introduction and expansion of technical education initiatives represent a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between traditional academic training and the practical skills demanded by modern industries. Over recent years, numerous studies have highlighted that a workforce equipped with specialized technical skills is essential for enhancing productivity and stimulating local development (Okoro, 2023). In Kanam, the historical reliance on conventional academic curricula has often failed to meet the dynamic requirements of the labor market, resulting in a significant mismatch between the skills acquired by graduates and those demanded by employers (Bello, 2024). This misalignment has contributed to high unemployment rates and stifled entrepreneurial growth in the region.
Recent reforms have attempted to integrate technical education into the mainstream educational framework by introducing practical modules, laboratory work, and partnerships with local industries. Such initiatives are premised on the idea that hands‐on training can significantly improve students’ employability and adaptability in a rapidly changing technological landscape (Chukwu, 2023). Moreover, technical education is seen not only as a tool for individual empowerment but also as a catalyst for community transformation by fostering innovation and encouraging local solutions to regional challenges (Ibrahim, 2025). Nonetheless, while the potential benefits of technical education are widely acknowledged, persistent challenges—such as limited infrastructure, inadequate funding, and a shortage of skilled instructors—continue to impede its effective implementation. This study is motivated by the need to critically evaluate the extent to which technical education in Kanam Local Government Area can serve as a sustainable solution to the region’s skill shortages, and to identify areas where improvements are most urgently required. The evaluation is intended to provide empirical evidence that can guide policymakers, educators, and industry leaders in designing interventions that are both contextually relevant and forward‐looking. In doing so, the study contributes to a growing body of literature that underscores the importance of aligning educational outputs with labor market needs in emerging economies (Garba, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite growing investments in technical education as a strategy to mitigate skill shortages, Kanam Local Government Area continues to face considerable challenges in realizing its full potential. The primary problem is the persistent disconnect between the skills imparted through technical training and the actual competencies required by local industries. Many training institutions suffer from inadequate facilities and outdated equipment, which hinder the delivery of modern, industry-relevant instruction (Olu, 2023). Moreover, there is an evident shortfall in the number of qualified instructors capable of delivering curriculum content that reflects current technological trends (Bello, 2024). This deficiency in quality teaching further exacerbates the skill gap, leaving graduates ill-prepared for the challenges of the contemporary job market.
The situation is compounded by insufficient funding and a lack of cohesive policy implementation. Although government initiatives have been introduced to promote technical education, the gap between policy formulation and effective execution remains wide. The inadequate financial support not only limits the acquisition of modern teaching aids and laboratory facilities but also undermines the ability to attract and retain experienced educators (Adeyemi, 2023). As a result, many students are unable to benefit fully from the practical aspects of technical education, leading to a continued mismatch between academic outputs and industry needs. The persistent skill shortages not only affect individual career prospects but also impede regional economic development, as local industries struggle to find workers with the necessary technical competencies. This study, therefore, seeks to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of technical education in addressing these issues in Kanam, with the goal of identifying critical barriers and proposing evidence-based strategies for improvement (Ibrahim, 2025).
Objectives of the study
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To evaluate the effectiveness of technical education in reducing skill shortages in Kanam Local Government Area.
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To identify the key challenges hindering the successful implementation of technical education programs.
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To recommend actionable strategies for aligning technical education outcomes with industry needs.
Research questions
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How effective is technical education in mitigating skill shortages in Kanam Local Government Area?
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What are the primary challenges affecting the quality and delivery of technical education in the region?
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How can technical education be better structured to meet local industry requirements?
Research Hypotheses
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There is a significant positive relationship between the quality of technical education and the reduction of skill shortages in Kanam.
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Limited funding and inadequate infrastructure negatively impact the efficacy of technical education programs.
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Strengthening industry–education partnerships will lead to improved technical competencies among graduates.
Significance of the study
This study is significant because it provides empirical insights into the role of technical education as a strategy for alleviating skill shortages in Kanam Local Government Area. By critically analyzing the challenges and successes of existing programs, the research offers valuable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders. The findings will contribute to refining educational strategies, thereby enhancing workforce readiness and fostering sustainable economic development. Ultimately, the study serves as a reference point for future initiatives aimed at improving technical education and reducing the skills gap in similar contexts (Garba, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to evaluating technical education as a solution to skill shortages within Kanam Local Government Area, Plateau State. The research focuses exclusively on the quality of training programs, available resources, and the relationship between technical education and local industry needs. It does not consider other educational sectors or external regions, and the findings may not be applicable beyond the specific context of Kanam.
Definitions of terms
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Technical Education: Instructional programs aimed at imparting practical and vocational skills necessary for industrial and technological sectors.
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Skill Shortages: The gap between the skills required by employers and those possessed by the workforce.
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Evaluation: A systematic assessment of program effectiveness and efficiency in achieving its intended outcomes.
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