An Approach to Technical Skill Development for Industrial Growth--A Way Forward for Developing Nations

Abstract

The study started with the analysis to examine the performance work skill needs of engineering and technology education students of Nigerian universities such that they will acquire the necessary theoretical knowledge requisite for practical training for a typical Nigerian refinery project. The study developed the most effective method of producing the required technical and managerial kill for increase productivity in any industrial set up. The training program outlined was made to show how technical manpower skill should be structured as basis for efficient management and matching of skill development to needs for technological enhancement. With the foregoing as background, the study developed an engineering planning method for generating skill required for new projects and attempts to program them for industrial development. The engineering program developed here deals with the problem of how to optimize the process of developing new skills so that they are available as needed during the process of setting up new industries especially in the sector of developing economy. Planning of technical education right from universities and polytechnics is a vital ingredient for generation of efficient workforce. The study noted that most of the student in Nigerian universities and polytechnics lack the necessary tool with which to become skillful engineers and technologist. It was discovered that the education of engineers and technologist students in Nigerian universities require some basic vital ingredient such as complying with safety precaution when performing a task.

Keywords: education and training, industrial development and engineering & technology, performance skill, planning methods, technical and managerial skills