Background of the Study
Continuing education programs play a vital role in updating skills and fostering innovation among professionals, and this is particularly true for artisans in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State. In an era marked by rapid technological change and market globalization, artisans who engage in continuing education can significantly enhance their craft and business acumen. Innovation skills—ranging from creative problem solving to the adoption of new techniques—are crucial for artisans seeking to remain competitive. These programs offer artisans the opportunity to learn advanced methodologies, modern production techniques, and innovative design concepts that can transform traditional practices (Ojo, 2023). The emphasis on continuous learning not only equips artisans with cutting-edge skills but also fosters a mindset geared toward experimentation and adaptation in a dynamic market environment. As the global economy becomes increasingly competitive, the need for innovative solutions in artisanal practices is more pressing than ever. Educational initiatives aimed at skill development have demonstrated that targeted training can lead to improvements in productivity, quality of craftsmanship, and overall business sustainability (Falade, 2024). In Bida, continuing education programs have been introduced to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern innovation. However, the integration of these innovative components into long-established artisanal techniques remains a challenge. Factors such as limited access to modern equipment, resistance to change, and inadequate funding can hinder the full realization of innovation potential among artisans (Ike, 2025). Despite these challenges, the positive outcomes observed in pilot training sessions suggest that a more systematic incorporation of innovation skills can result in significant improvements in artisanal practices. The study will examine the curriculum design, training methodologies, and support systems that underpin these continuing education programs. Moreover, it will assess the extent to which these programs enable artisans to adopt new technologies and creative methods in their work. Ultimately, the investigation seeks to provide empirical evidence that underscores the transformative potential of continuing education in driving innovation within the artisanal sector, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development in Bida.
Statement of the Problem
Artisans in Bida Local Government Area face increasing pressure to innovate in order to remain competitive in a rapidly changing economic landscape. Although continuing education programs have been introduced to develop innovation skills, there is a significant gap between the intended outcomes of these programs and the actual improvements observed in artisanal practices. Many artisans report difficulties in adapting traditional techniques to incorporate modern innovations. The existing training modules are often perceived as too theoretical, with limited hands-on application, resulting in low retention and practical usage of innovative techniques (Ojo, 2023). Moreover, challenges such as insufficient funding for advanced training equipment, lack of follow-up support, and resistance to change within traditional artisanal communities further exacerbate the problem. The disconnect between continuing education curricula and the real-world needs of artisans has led to suboptimal performance improvements and reduced competitiveness in the market. As a result, there is a critical need to re-evaluate these educational programs to better align with the innovative demands of the industry. This study aims to identify the factors that hinder the effective development of innovation skills among artisans and to propose strategies to overcome these challenges. In doing so, it will provide insights into curriculum gaps, training delivery methods, and support structures that may be lacking. The findings are expected to inform policymakers and training providers on how to design more effective continuing education programs that truly enhance the innovative capacities of artisans in Bida (Falade, 2024; Ike, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To assess the effectiveness of continuing education programs in developing innovation skills among artisans.
To identify the challenges faced by artisans in integrating innovative practices into their traditional work.
To recommend curriculum and support system improvements for fostering innovation in the artisanal sector.
Research Questions
How do continuing education programs impact the development of innovation skills among artisans in Bida?
What challenges do artisans encounter when integrating modern innovation into traditional practices?
Which improvements in training delivery can enhance the adoption of innovative techniques?
Research Hypotheses
H1: Continuing education programs significantly enhance innovation skills among artisans.
H2: The current training modules are insufficient in addressing practical applications of innovative techniques.
H3: Increased access to modern equipment and follow-up support improves innovation adoption among artisans.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it examines the role of continuing education in fostering innovation among artisans, a critical factor for economic development in Bida. By evaluating training effectiveness and identifying challenges, the research will inform program redesign to better meet industry demands. The findings are anticipated to guide policymakers and educators in developing more practical, hands-on training that promotes sustainable innovation, ensuring artisans remain competitive in both local and global markets (Ike, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to assessing continuing education programs aimed at developing innovation skills among artisans in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State. It focuses on curriculum content, training methodologies, and infrastructural support, without extending to broader industry or national educational policies.
Definitions of Terms
Continuing Education Programs: Structured learning opportunities for professionals to update and enhance their skills beyond initial training.
Innovation Skills: Abilities related to creative problem solving, adoption of new technologies, and modernizing traditional practices.
Artisans: Skilled craftsmen engaged in traditional or creative production methods.
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