Background of the study
The availability of quality instructional materials is critical to the successful implementation of technical education in secondary schools. In Maiduguri Local Government Area, Borno State, the dearth of modern and adequate teaching aids has emerged as a significant barrier to effective learning and skill acquisition. Over the past decade, numerous reforms have emphasized the integration of technology and practical tools in education to bridge the gap between theoretical instruction and real-world applications (Abdullahi, 2023). However, in Maiduguri, many secondary schools continue to struggle with outdated and insufficient instructional materials that fail to meet the evolving demands of technical education. This inadequacy not only impedes the delivery of practical knowledge but also diminishes students’ ability to engage with contemporary technological advancements (Sani, 2024).
Recent studies suggest that instructional materials, when effectively utilized, can enhance student comprehension, promote interactive learning, and improve overall academic performance (Usman, 2023). In technical education, such materials are indispensable for conducting experiments, simulations, and hands-on projects that mirror real-life industrial processes. The current educational landscape in Maiduguri is characterized by a significant disparity in resource allocation, where some schools enjoy relatively modern facilities while others are left with minimal tools and outdated textbooks. This uneven distribution of resources has raised concerns about equity and quality in education, as students in under-resourced schools are at a disadvantage compared to their peers (Garba, 2024).
Moreover, the rapid evolution of technology necessitates continuous updates to instructional materials to remain relevant. The lack of timely upgrades in many secondary schools in Maiduguri exacerbates the challenges faced by technical educators in delivering an up-to-date curriculum (Ibrahim, 2025). The current study is, therefore, designed to critically evaluate the availability and adequacy of instructional materials for technical education in secondary schools within Maiduguri Local Government Area. By examining the current state of resources, the study aims to highlight the disparities and propose measures that could improve the educational infrastructure. This investigation is pivotal for policymakers and educational administrators seeking to enhance the quality of technical education and ensure that students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern workforce (Abdullahi, 2023).
Additionally, the study explores the role of governmental and non-governmental initiatives in supplementing instructional resources and fostering partnerships with private organizations to modernize the learning environment.
Statement of the problem
Despite numerous policy initiatives aimed at modernizing education in Maiduguri, secondary schools in the area still face significant challenges regarding the availability of adequate instructional materials for technical education. Many institutions operate with outdated textbooks, insufficient laboratory equipment, and limited access to digital resources, which collectively undermine the quality of technical training (Sani, 2024). The lack of up-to-date instructional materials not only hampers students’ ability to learn practical skills but also affects their motivation and engagement with the subject matter. Furthermore, there exists a notable disparity in resource distribution between urban and peripheral schools within Maiduguri, leading to inequitable educational outcomes.
This deficiency in instructional materials has been linked to poor academic performance and a widening skills gap, as students are unable to effectively translate theoretical knowledge into practical competencies (Usman, 2023). Educators report that the scarcity of modern teaching aids forces them to rely on conventional methods that no longer meet the contemporary demands of the technical and industrial sectors. Additionally, the failure to provide updated resources reflects broader systemic issues such as insufficient budgetary allocations, inadequate training for teachers on the use of new technologies, and poor maintenance of existing equipment (Garba, 2024).
The persistent problem of inadequate instructional materials not only affects the immediate learning environment but also has long-term implications for workforce development in Maiduguri. Graduates from these secondary schools often find themselves ill-prepared for further education or technical vocations, contributing to a cycle of underemployment and economic stagnation. Consequently, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive evaluation of the instructional resources available for technical education in Maiduguri’s secondary schools. This study seeks to identify the underlying causes of these deficiencies and propose sustainable solutions to enhance resource availability, thereby improving the overall quality of technical education (Ibrahim, 2025).
Objectives of the study
To assess the current availability and adequacy of instructional materials in secondary schools offering technical education in Maiduguri.
To identify the challenges that hinder the procurement and maintenance of modern instructional resources.
To propose recommendations for improving the distribution and quality of instructional materials.
Research questions
What is the current state of instructional materials available for technical education in Maiduguri’s secondary schools?
What are the primary challenges affecting the provision of up-to-date instructional resources?
How can policy interventions improve the availability and quality of these materials?
Research Hypotheses
There is a significant relationship between the availability of modern instructional materials and student performance in technical education.
Limited funding is a major impediment to the procurement of adequate instructional resources.
Effective partnerships with private organizations enhance the quality and availability of instructional materials.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides a critical assessment of the instructional materials available for technical education in Maiduguri’s secondary schools. The findings will offer valuable insights for educational policymakers, school administrators, and stakeholders seeking to bridge the resource gap in technical training. Enhanced instructional resources can improve practical learning outcomes and better prepare students for technical vocations, ultimately contributing to the regional development of a skilled workforce. The study’s recommendations are expected to inform future resource allocation and strategic planning initiatives (Usman, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to the evaluation of instructional materials used for technical education in secondary schools within Maiduguri Local Government Area, Borno State. It focuses solely on the availability, adequacy, and management of these resources, and does not extend to other regions or levels of education.
Definitions of terms
Instructional Materials: Resources such as textbooks, laboratory equipment, and digital tools used to facilitate technical education.
Technical Education: Educational programs that emphasize practical and vocational skills tailored to meet industry demands.
Availability: The extent to which necessary educational resources are accessible for effective teaching and learning.
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