Background of the Study
In the contemporary educational framework, technical education has been recognized as a catalyst for fostering entrepreneurial skills among secondary school students. In Baruten Local Government Area, Kwara State, the integration of technical education into the secondary school curriculum reflects a paradigm shift toward cultivating innovative and self-reliant young minds. Exposure to hands-on training and problem-solving exercises significantly boosts entrepreneurial intent by providing students with foundational skills for launching and managing small-scale enterprises (Akinola, 2023). Furthermore, technical education equips students with critical thinking and resource management abilities, which are crucial for navigating the competitive landscape of modern business (Olawale, 2024). Secondary schools in Baruten have increasingly adopted curricula that combine technical proficiency with entrepreneurial education. This dual approach not only prepares students for future employment but also encourages them to view entrepreneurship as a viable career option. Community-based projects, mentorship programs, and partnerships with local businesses further reinforce the role of technical education in nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit (Babatunde, 2025). Such initiatives provide real-world exposure and practical experience, bridging the gap between academic learning and the practical demands of running a business. As a result, technical education contributes to shaping a generation that is innovative, business-savvy, and capable of identifying and exploiting market opportunities. The growing emphasis on entrepreneurship within technical education is aligned with regional economic development strategies that aim to diversify income sources and reduce dependency on traditional employment avenues. By instilling entrepreneurial values early, schools in Baruten are laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and job creation. This evolving educational approach is pivotal for empowering students to transition seamlessly into the world of business and innovation, thereby contributing to local economic resilience (Musa, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the positive correlation between technical education and entrepreneurial outcomes, significant challenges persist in effectively fostering entrepreneurship among secondary school students in Baruten Local Government Area. One major issue is the limited availability of resources and infrastructural support needed to translate technical skills into business ventures. Many schools struggle to provide adequate tools, mentorship, and funding opportunities, which limits the practical application of entrepreneurial concepts (Adeyemi, 2023). Additionally, although the curriculum aims to build an entrepreneurial mindset, a shortage of experienced business mentors and insufficient real-world business exposure often hinders students from fully capitalizing on their technical training. The disconnect between theoretical instruction and practical experience results in a gap in students’ readiness to start their own enterprises (Ibrahim, 2024). Moreover, the prevailing socio-cultural environment may still favor traditional career paths over entrepreneurial ventures, thereby discouraging students from pursuing self-employment despite the training provided. Rapid changes in the business environment further necessitate continuous updates to the curriculum, a challenge that many schools are currently unable to meet. This persistent gap between educational intent and practical outcomes underscores the need for a comprehensive evaluation of how technical education can be better harnessed to promote entrepreneurship among secondary school students. Without addressing these challenges, the full potential of technical education to foster entrepreneurial success in Baruten will remain unrealized, limiting its impact on local economic development (Chukwu, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the impact of technical education on entrepreneurial intentions among secondary school students.
To assess the availability and effectiveness of entrepreneurial support resources within the technical education curriculum.
To identify strategies for enhancing the integration of entrepreneurship into technical education programs.
Research Questions
How does technical education influence entrepreneurial intentions among secondary school students in Baruten?
What challenges hinder the integration of practical entrepreneurial skills within the technical curriculum?
How can support systems be improved to foster entrepreneurship among students?
Research Hypotheses
Technical education significantly increases entrepreneurial intentions among secondary school students.
The presence of entrepreneurial support resources positively correlates with successful business ventures.
An integrated approach to technical and entrepreneurial education improves students’ readiness to launch businesses.
Significance of the Study
This study holds significance as it explores the role of technical education in nurturing entrepreneurship among secondary school students in Baruten Local Government Area. By addressing the gap between theoretical learning and practical business skills, the research provides insights to inform curriculum development and policy interventions. The findings are intended to support educators, policymakers, and industry partners in designing programs that effectively foster an entrepreneurial mindset. Ultimately, this study contributes to establishing a robust framework for entrepreneurship education, equipping young individuals with the skills necessary to drive local economic growth (Oke, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is confined to the examination of the effects of technical education on fostering entrepreneurship among secondary school students in Baruten Local Government Area, Kwara State. It does not extend to other regions or educational levels, and the findings are limited to the specific contextual dynamics of the area.
Definitions of Terms
Entrepreneurship: The process of designing, launching, and running a new business venture.
Technical Education: Educational programs that combine practical skills with theoretical knowledge.
Entrepreneurial Intentions: The desire and plan to initiate and operate a business.
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