International Council for Education, Research and Training

Development and validity testing of marketing entrepreneurial competencies conceptual model for technical colleges in Nigeria

Muhammad, Abubakar Ibrahim1,  Hamza, Samaila2, Jogana, Musa Ali 3 and Haruna, Rabiu4

1Department of Metalwork Technology, School of Secondary Education (Technical), Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi Kano Nigeria

2Department of vocational and Technology Education, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria

3Department of Building Technology, School of Secondary Education (Technical), Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi Kano Nigeria

4Department of Electrical / Electronic Technology, School of Secondary Education (Technical), Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi Kano Nigeria

Abstract

Entrepreneurial marketing competencies are crucial for preparing technical college students for self-employment in Nigeria. This study aimed to identify essential elements of a marketing entrepreneurial competencies model tailored for technical college students. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 27 technical colleges, 241 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), 650 teachers, and 241 entrepreneurs, resulting in a total population of 891. The study utilized Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) via AMOS 23 to validate the model, which demonstrated a strong fit and identified eight key elements, including “Building and retaining effective sales relationships.” The findings support the integration of this model into technical college curricula to enhance students’ entrepreneurial capabilities under effective supervision by college heads.

Keywords: Technical colleges, entrepreneurial marketing competencies, confirmatory factor analysis

Impact Statement

The study provides a validated framework for integrating marketing entrepreneurial competencies into technical college curricula. This work has significant implications for education, entrepreneurship, and national development:

Educational Impact: This study enhances the curriculum of technical colleges by identifying critical entrepreneurial marketing competencies. By equipping students with these skills, technical education can better align with market needs, fostering employability and self-reliance.

The eight identified competencies—such as building effective sales relationships and recognizing market opportunities—are instrumental in shaping a modern, market-responsive curriculum.

Economic and Social Impact: The integration of entrepreneurial competencies addresses the persistent challenge of youth unemployment in Nigeria. By fostering self-employment capabilities, graduates can contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction.

The study encourages collaboration between educational institutions and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), bridging the gap between education and industry demands.

Policy and Institutional Impact: The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, urging them to prioritize entrepreneurial education within technical colleges. This aligns with the Nigerian government’s goals of fostering self-reliance and economic resilience.

The robust methodological approach, validated through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), offers a replicable model for other institutions and regions seeking to implement similar reforms.-

Global and Theoretical Contributions: The conceptual model contributes to global discourses on technical and vocational education by emphasizing the role of marketing competencies in entrepreneurship education. The study bridges theoretical gaps by integrating entrepreneurial education theories with practical application, offering a comprehensive framework for future research and curriculum development.

Broader Implications The validated model has the potential to revolutionize technical education in Nigeria and beyond by preparing students for the dynamic challenges of globalization and economic transformation. By fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and skills, the study lays the foundation for a generation of self-reliant graduates who can innovate, create jobs, and contribute to sustainable economic progress.

About The Author

Abubakar Ibrahim Muhammad is a dynamic, qualified and knowledgeable technical educator who is attuned to the need of his students, with almost 30 years’ experience in education sector. Excellent curriculum interpreter, implementer and very good team working skills. A PhD holder in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; Working with Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi from 2008 to Date as a Principal Lecturer. Has attended and presented papers at national and international conferences, workshops and seminars. Likewise, has many publications in local and international reputable journals. Also participating in community and voluntary work. He is a registered member of professional associations. Dr. Muhammad has made significant contributions to the field of TVET, particularly concerning the integration of entrepreneurial competencies into technical college programs.

Dr. Samaila Hamza is a proficient researcher and academician in the field of Technical and Vocational Education. He acquired Ph.D Degree in Technical and Vocational Education from Universiti of Teknologi Malaysia. Dr. Hamza is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Vocational and Technology Education, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Dr. Hamza has contributed immensely to the development of Technical and Vocational Education with more than 20 publications and several conference papers. He is a member of Annals of Technology Education Practitioners Association of Nigeria (ATEPAN).

Dr. Rabiu Haruna is currently a Chief Lecturer from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Technology, SOSE (Technical), Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi, Kano, Nigeria. He received his BTech (Ed) in Electrical Technology Education from Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger, Nigeria. Master’s of Engineering in Communication and Information System from Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan, P.R China. Doctor of Philosophy in Technical and Vocational Education from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. His current research interests are in the areas of 21st Century Teaching and learning Skills, IR 4.0, Technical and Engineering Education, Electrical Technology Education, Wireless Communications and Networking, and many other related areas. He published articles in Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus indexed journals. He is a registered member of IEEE, TRCN, APA, ERDA, IET, IVETA, IAENG.

Dr. Musa Ali Jogana is an accomplished scholar and educator with expertise in curriculum studies. He obtained his PhD degree in Curriculum Studies from Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. Currently serving as a Chief Lecturer at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, Kano state. He dedicated his career to the advancement of technical and vocational education. His research interests primarily revolve around curriculum development and improvement in technical and vocational education. 

Dr. Jogana’s commitment to excellence in education is evident in his teaching methods and his passion for empowering students with the necessary skills and knowledge for success. He is widely recognized for his academic achievements and has been honoured with numerous awards and accolades for his outstanding contributions to the field.

 

With his extensive experience and expertise, Dr. Jogana continues to influence and shape the field of curriculum development and technical education, inspiring future generations of educators and learners alike

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