IMPACT OF INDUSTRIALIZATION AND THE ROLE OF PUBLIC EDUCATION IN NIGERIA SYSTEM

This study was carried out to investigate the impact of industrialization and the role of public education in the Nigerian system. The research focused on assessing how effectively the public education system supports Nigeria’s industrial growth and socio-economic development. Specifically, it examined the challenges hindering industrial development, the extent to which educational curricula align with industrial demands, the influence of government policies, and proposed strategies for improving synergy between both sectors. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and involved a total of 250 respondents drawn from selected educational and institutional sectors using a simple random sampling technique. A structured and validated questionnaire served as the primary data collection instrument. Responses were analyzed using a four-point Likert scale of Strongly Agree (SA), Agree (A), Disagree (D), and Strongly Disagree (SD), and results were interpreted with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed a significant gap between the skills imparted by public education and the needs of the industrial sector. While industrialization was found to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s socio-economic development, education-related policies were either ineffective or poorly implemented. Recommendations were made to improve curriculum relevance, strengthen vocational education, and encourage school and industry partnerships. This study contributes to the discourse on education reform and industrial policy in Nigeria, offering evidence-based recommendations to educators, policymakers, and stakeholders. Its implications extend beyond Nigeria, providing insight for other developing countries seeking to harmonize education and industrial growth for national development.