INTEGRATING STEM COMPETENCIES INTO TVET FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Authors

Abstract

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is pivotal for fostering entrepreneurship development and mitigating unemployment, yet integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) competencies within TVET programs faces significant hurdles in developing nations. This study investigates the development of TVET entrepreneurs through STEM competencies in Benue State, Nigeria, specifically addressing gaps in institutional adequacy and pedagogical strategies. Employing a quantitative survey research design, data were collected via questionnaires from 120 lecturers across selected universities and polytechnics. Findings reveal that the current STEM landscape is characterized by critical challenges, including a lack of qualified teachers, limited funding, obsolete curricula, and inadequate facilities (Mean=3.33). Respondents disagreed that STEM-based institutions are adequate, citing poorly equipped laboratories, workshops, and power supply issues (Mean=2.15). Conversely, strategies such as business incubation, mentorship, practical-based learning, and industry engagement were identified as highly effective for developing entrepreneurs (Mean=3.52). the paper thus, recommended establishing urgent government funding mechanisms similar to TETFUND, mandating annual teacher training, revitalizing facilities, and strengthening industry-academia collaborations.

Keywords

STEM Competencies, TVET, Entrepreneurship Development, Institutional Adequacy, & Teaching Strategies

DOI

10.0000/wijamssae.v1i2.integrating-stem-competencies-into-tvet-for-entrep

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