Production of Fashion Items and Clothing Accessories for Economic Sustenance and Revitalization in Ondo West Local Government
Akinwale, Mujeeb Olanrewaju
Department of Home Economics, Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Ondo state, Nigeria
Abstract
The fashion industry plays a crucial role in economic sustenance and revitalization by driving employment, supporting local industries, and contributing to overall economic growth. This paper investigated the production of fashion items and clothing accessories for economic sustenance and revitalization in Ondo West Local Government (OWLG). Four research questions guided the study. A descriptive survey research approach was adopted for this study. The sample for the study comprised One Hundred and Twenty (120) fashion entrepreneurs and stakeholders in the fashion industry in OWLG. The questionnaire used for data collection was designed and titled ‘Production of Fashion Items and Clothing Accessories for Economic sustenance and Revitalization in Ondo West Local Government (PFICA)’. Findings from the respondents showed that the production process is heavily reliant on the quality and availability of raw materials. Further findings revealed that the fashion industry truly faces various challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, raw materials and accessories not readily available, and a shortage of skilled labor. Additionally, production of fashion items and clothing accessories within the locality can promote a self-sufficient economy that is less dependent on imported goods. The research findings hold practical implications for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and investors interested in leveraging the fashion industry for economic sustenance and revitalization in OWLG. Based on the findings, several recommendations were made. Firstly, there is a need for the adoption of initiatives such as facilitating access to finance through microcredit schemes by the area. Secondly, the government should establish fashion hubs and centers or collaborative spaces for fashion designers and tailors to work together, share ideas, and collaborate on projects while having affordable access to raw materials. Lastly, investing in vocational training programs to develop a skilled workforce was emphasized as a crucial step towards addressing the shortage of skilled labor. Implementing these recommendations can contribute to the economic sustenance and revitalization of the fashion industry in OWLG and foster sustainable development.
Keywords: Production, Fashion Items, Clothing Accessories, Economic sustenance and revitalization
Impact Statement
In Ondo State, the production of fashion items and clothing accessories is a source of income for many individuals and an essential aspect of the state’s economy. The fashion industry in Ondo State has been facing some challenges in recent times, including insufficient capital, lack of modern equipment, and inadequate government support. However, with the current focus on economic revitalization and job creation in Nigeria, stakeholders are beginning to explore the potential of the fashion industry in Ondo State. The research examined the production of fashion items and clothing accessories as tools that can contribute to economic revitalization in Ondo West Local Government.
About Author
Mr. Mujeeb Olanrewaju Akinwale obtained his B.Ed. (Home Economics) and Certificate in Data Analysis (SPSS) from Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo affiliated to Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, now Adeyemi Federal University of Education and Classic Systems Infotech, Ile-Ife affiliated to Federal University of Akure, Ondo state, Nigeria in 2015 respectively. He is an astute young graduate that has great desire for teaching and research, and has contributed immensely to body of knowledge in the area of Clothing and Textiles, most especially the aspect of pattern drafting. He is currently a postgraduate student of the University of Benin. Edo state. He has attended Eleven (11) conferences with papers presented. He has published journal articles at both local and international levels. He is presently a Lecturer in the Department of Home Economics, Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Ondo state, Nigeria where he teaches all assigned courses, especially clothing related courses. He is happily married and blessed with loving children.
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