GOOD GOVERNANCE: A VEHICLE FOR TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (TVET) AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN IGERIA

Abstract

The entrepreneurial opportunities that abound in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs are myriad and can never be over emphasized.  Several efforts to successfully harness and exploit the opportunities available in TVET to improve the quality of life of recipients and Nigeria’s economy have failed due to lack of good governance of TVET and consequently its neglect. This neglect has resulted in production of unskilled TVET graduates that lacked the necessary skills, attitude, and knowledge to better their lives and move the country to greater heights. This paper highlights: concept of good governance in TVET, concept of TVET; roles of TVET and the challenges facing TVET sector of the economy in Nigeria; Entrepreneurship Education; and suggested the ways forward for self-reliance and sustainable economic development of the society and nation at large. This study concludes that TVET has a vital role to play in sustaining the national economy especially in producing skilled work force, entrepreneurship development and poverty reduction. Some recommendations were submitted by the study which includes Tackle TVET stereotyping, improve TVET status, make it more attractive, provide sustainable financing for TVET, create synergy between all TVE stakeholders, provide adequate training facilities/materials, Staff training and welfare programs and accommodate variations in trainees. There is need to revitalize the existing TVET centers in Nigeria; review the curriculum in all TVET programs to suit the current dynamics of the world of technology and the needs of the society; and remuneration for TVET trainers should be made attractive to keep experienced staff and attract more qualified ones.