Fostering Quality Education and Effective Management as Catalysts for Reducing Youth Unemployment and Stimulating Economic Recovery in Nigeria

Abstract

The research paper investigates the impact of quality education on job creation and economic recovery within Nigeria. The study encompasses three distinct objectives and corresponding hypotheses. Employing a descriptive survey design, the research targets 400 lecturers within tertiary institutions situated in Kaduna state. Data collection utilizes a set of structured questions titled "Functional Education for Dwindling Economic (FEDE)," presented in a four-point rating scale. The instrument's validity was established through validation by experts from the Faculty of Education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Data collection was facilitated through face-to-face interactions, with the assistance of four research assistants. Upon administering the questionnaire, responses were promptly collected from participants after conveying the requisite information. Subsequent to data collection, regression analysis was employed for data analysis. The outcomes of the analysis revealed, among other findings, a significant correlation between functional education and the mitigation of economic challenges within Kaduna state. The study's conclusion underscores the critical role of functional education in enhancing productivity, fostering competition and innovation, generating employment opportunities, promoting prosperity, and revitalizing economies – all of which constitute prominent challenges faced by the nation. In light of the research's findings, recommendations are put forth. Particularly, it is advised that functional education be seamlessly integrated into the curriculum across all levels of education within Nigeria. This integration serves as a proactive step towards addressing the identified challenges, thereby contributing to the enhancement of job creation and the revitalization of the country's economy.