Quantitative validation of entrepreneurial opportunity competency model: AMOS-SEM approach
1Muhammad, Abubakar Ibrahim, and 2Sawaba, Adamu Yusuf
3Jogana, Musa Ali and 4Haruna, Rabiu
1&2Metal Work Technology Department, 3Building Technology Department, 4Electrical / Electronic Technology Department
Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi Kano Nigeria
Abstract
Entrepreneurial opportunity competencies have been recognized as the initial stage of entrepreneurship and is seen as a critical competency needed by technical college students in their training as technicians that will lead them to improve their innovativeness and willingness to start their own enterprises after graduation. The objective of the study is to determine the important elements of entrepreneurial opportunity competencies required by technical college students for self-employment in Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design has been used for the collection of the data, which includes using a questionnaire to determine the respondents’ opinions and views. A structure questionnaire titled “Important elements of Entrepreneurial Opportunity Competencies required by Technical College Students for self-employment Questionnaire (IEOCTCSQ)” with 11 items was designed to collect data. The target population constitute 650 teachers and 241 entrepreneurs. The reliability of the instrument was determined through Cronbach’s alpha and the value obtained was .828. Accordingly, the data analysis was performed using AMOS version 23.0. The study established 8 important elements of entrepreneurial opportunity competencies in the model worthy for inclusion in the programs of technical colleges of Nigeria. It is recommended that the implementation of this EOC model by technical colleges should be closely monitored by college administrators. The impact of this model may include graduating students with entrepreneurial opportunity competencies who will become self-employed by starting up their own venture.
KEY WORDS: Technical colleges, opportunity entrepreneurial competencies, self-employment.
Impact statement
It is clear that technical and vocational education is the most reliable tool to reduce poverty, unemployment, eradicate disease, among other example in developing countries. Thus, in Nigeria, the purpose of establishing technical colleges is to address the issues of job creation, self-reliance and skills development. However, most technical college students graduate without the required entrepreneurial skills. Likewise, the gap between college-taught curriculum and the skills required in small businesses and enterprises is a main hindrance to SMEs growth. Therefore, there is need for a new school curriculum that will adapt the teaching of entrepreneurship, which will be the solution to the current problem of unemployment. This research examined the important elements of managerial entrepreneurial competencies that are suitable for integration into technical college curriculum in Nigeria as required for self-employment. In essence, this research has practical implications for of Nigerian Government; policy makers, curriculum developers, administrators, lecturers and students.
About author
Dynamic, qualified and knowledgeable care and technical educator who is attuned to the need of his students, with 28 years’ experience in education sector. Always keep pace with the demand of the education sector. Excellent curriculum interpreter, implementer and very good team working skills. A PhD holder in Technical and Vocational Education from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; MSc. Advanced Materials from Bolton University, United Kingdom; B. Tech. Industrial & Technical Education, Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria and Nigeria certificate of Education, Federal College of Education (Technical) Gombe. Working with Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi from 2008 to Date as a Senior Lecturer. Principal Assistant Education Officer (PAEO) with Kano State Science and Technical Schools Board, between 1994 and 2008. Developing a plethora of excellent experience in scientific research and innovation, conducting an excellent research in technical education; entrepreneurship education and competencies and how to sell the new innovation in the world market for the benefit of humanity. In addition I am scrupulous and a career driving with determined approach to meeting targets and team organization.
Has attended national and international conferences, workshops and seminars. Likewise, has many publications in local and international reputable journals. Also participating in community and voluntary work.
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