Background of the Study
Traditional crafts form an integral part of cultural heritage and local economies in many regions. In Sumaila Local Government Area, Kano State, vocational education is increasingly recognized as a means to sustain and modernize traditional crafts. By integrating modern techniques with age-old practices, vocational education programs aim to preserve cultural artistry while enhancing artisans’ productivity and competitiveness in contemporary markets (Aliyu, 2023). These programs introduce structured training that not only teaches modern production methods but also emphasizes quality control and innovative design, thereby extending the lifespan of traditional crafts in a rapidly changing economic environment (Shuaibu, 2024). The incorporation of vocational training has the potential to revitalize local craft industries by providing artisans with the skills needed to improve their products and explore new markets. Moreover, sustaining traditional crafts through vocational education contributes to the preservation of cultural identity and supports the economic empowerment of local communities. However, challenges such as limited funding, inadequate training infrastructure, and the reluctance to change traditional practices pose significant obstacles (Mansur, 2025). The study intends to explore these challenges in depth, examining how vocational education can be tailored to support the sustainability of traditional crafts. It will assess the effectiveness of current programs and identify strategies that can enhance the integration of modern techniques with traditional methods. By doing so, the research seeks to offer evidence-based recommendations that can inform policymakers and educators about how best to leverage vocational education to secure the future of traditional crafts in Sumaila. Ultimately, this study aims to bridge the gap between cultural preservation and modern economic development, ensuring that traditional crafts remain viable and competitive in today’s market (Aliyu, 2023; Shuaibu, 2024; Mansur, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the rich cultural heritage associated with traditional crafts in Sumaila, many artisans face the threat of obsolescence due to evolving market demands and competition from industrially produced goods. Vocational education has been proposed as a solution to sustain these crafts; however, its implementation has been fraught with challenges. One major issue is the inadequate adaptation of vocational training curricula to the specific needs of traditional craft preservation. Many training programs focus on modern techniques without sufficiently addressing the unique aspects of traditional craftsmanship (Aliyu, 2023). Furthermore, limited access to updated tools and technologies hinders artisans from fully benefiting from vocational education, leaving a gap between theoretical instruction and practical application (Shuaibu, 2024). Financial constraints and insufficient government support further complicate the scenario, resulting in minimal innovation and low productivity among traditional craft practitioners. The reluctance to deviate from long-established methods, combined with a lack of market-oriented training, has led to declining incomes and reduced interest among the younger generation in pursuing traditional crafts as a viable career. This study aims to identify the core challenges affecting the sustainability of traditional crafts in Sumaila and evaluate the effectiveness of vocational education in mitigating these issues. By analyzing the barriers to successful implementation, the research seeks to develop a framework for integrating vocational education with traditional craft practices to ensure long-term sustainability and cultural preservation (Mansur, 2025; Aliyu, 2023; Shuaibu, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
1. To determine the role of vocational education in sustaining traditional crafts in Sumaila.
2. To assess the challenges faced by traditional craft artisans in accessing vocational training.
3. To recommend strategies to enhance the sustainability of traditional crafts through improved vocational education.
Research Questions
1. How does vocational education contribute to the sustainability of traditional crafts in Sumaila?
2. What challenges hinder the effective integration of vocational education with traditional craft practices?
3. What measures can be taken to improve the sustainability of traditional crafts through vocational education?
Research Hypotheses
1. H1: Vocational education has a positive impact on the sustainability of traditional crafts in Sumaila (Aliyu, 2023).
2. H2: Inadequate training resources hinder the preservation of traditional crafts (Shuaibu, 2024).
3. H3: Policy reforms in vocational education can significantly enhance the sustainability of traditional crafts (Mansur, 2025).
Significance of the Study
This study is critical as it highlights the pivotal role of vocational education in preserving and sustaining traditional crafts in Sumaila. The insights derived will assist policymakers, educators, and artisans in developing effective strategies that bridge modern training with traditional skills, ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage and economic development. The research emphasizes the interdependence of vocational training and craft sustainability, offering evidence-based recommendations (Aliyu, 2023; Shuaibu, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to evaluating the impact of vocational education on the sustainability of traditional crafts in Sumaila Local Government Area, Kano State, and does not consider influences from external sectors.
Definitions of Terms
• Vocational Education: Instructional programs that focus on developing practical skills for specific trades (Aliyu, 2023).
• Traditional Crafts: Handicrafts passed down through generations, representing cultural heritage (Shuaibu, 2024).
• Sustainability: The capacity to maintain or support a process over time, particularly in cultural and economic contexts (Mansur, 2025).
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