BUILDING THE SKILLS GAP IN HIGHER (TEACHER) EDUCATION THROUGH HANDS-ON SKILLS TRAINING: INVESTIGATING THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION GIDAN MADI ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER IN FOSTERING BUSINESS START-UPS AMONG STUDENTS

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This study examines the contributions of the Federal College of Education (FCE) Gidan Madi Entrepreneurship Center in fostering business start-ups and promoting self-reliance among students.As a newly established teacher education institution aiming to become a model entrepreneurship hub, the center provides diverse skill-based training designed to equip students with competencies required for the modern economy. The center serves as an innovation and skill-incubation hub where students engage in hands-on training in areas such as tailoring, soap making,knitting, hair product formulation, air freshener production, and ICT. The high rate of unemployment in Nigeria has been largely attributed to the lack of practical skill acquisition in higher education, leaving many graduates without the capacity to establish sustainable enterprises. This study therefore investigates how hands-on skills training can bridge the gap between theoretical education and entrepreneurial practice. The research specifically evaluates the effectiveness of the center's training programs in enhancing students' entrepreneurial mindset, intention, and ability to start and sustain businesses. It also examines the alignment of these programs with national education policies and government initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment and promoting self-employment. A mixed-method approach was adopted, utilizing questionnaires administered to students and instructors, alongside interviews with stakeholders. The findings provide valuable insights into the role of practical entrepreneurship education in enhancing employability, fostering innovation, and supporting business start-ups among students in teacher training institutions.