SAKA GANIYU ABIODUN
Department of Environmental Management and Business Studies
SENJ LIMITED
sakaganiyu@yahoo.co.uk
Abstract
Skills acquisition remains a key driver of economic empowerment and sustainable development, particularly in developing regions facing unemployment and socio-economic instability. This study assesses the implementation and impact of skills acquisition programs in Borno State, Nigeria, with the aim of determining their effectiveness, challenges, and implications for economic development. The study adopted a descriptive survey design using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data were collected from trainees, instructors, and program administrators across government and private training centers. The findings revealed that while the programs have enhanced self-employment, productivity, and income levels among participants, challenges such as inadequate funding, obsolete training equipment, poor monitoring, and insecurity hinder optimal outcomes. The study concludes that effective skills acquisition programs can significantly reduce poverty and unemployment in Borno State if well-coordinated, properly funded, and aligned with market demands. It recommends policy restructuring, partnership with private investors, and integration of ICT-based vocational skills to boost youth empowerment and sustainable economic growth.
Keywords: Skills acquisition, vocational training, economic development, youth empowerment, Borno State.