Contributions of Entrepreneurial Education to Skills Development and Inclusive Growth among Learners in North Central, Nigeria.

Abstract

This study examined the contribution of entrepreneurial education (EE) to skills development and inclusive growth among learners in North Central, Nigeria. Specifically, it sought to answer two research questions and null hypotheses. A descriptive survey design was adopted, while the population of the study consisted of 8,450 respondents, distributed among 5,200 students, 2,400 teachers, and 850 Administrators involved in entrepreneurial education within selected educational institutions in the North Central Zone. These include students, teachers, and school administrators. The total estimated population of the study was 8,450. A multistage sampling technique was employed. First, states were selected from the North Central Zone. A total sample of 400 respondents were used for the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire with items rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, including mean scores, and inferential statistics, particularly multiple regression analysis at a 0.05 significance level, were used to test the hypotheses. Findings reveals that entrepreneurial education significantly enhances learners’ skills, including problem-solving, creativity, financial literacy, leadership, and self-efficacy. Additionally, EE significantly promotes inclusive growth by improving employability, encouraging self-employment, and fostering equitable economic participation. The study concludes that EE is a dual-purpose intervention that simultaneously develops individual competencies and contributes to societal economic inclusion. Recommendations include integrating practical EE programs into curricula, promoting access for marginalized groups, and linking educational outcomes to real-world entrepreneurial opportunities.