IMPACT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION ON DISABLE STUDENTS IN DEKNIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE

ABSTRACT This study examines the impact of entrepreneurship education on students with disabilities in Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State. Motivated by high rates of youth unemployment and the growing recognition of entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic inclusion, the research investigates how targeted entrepreneurial training affects participants’ self-efficacy, business knowledge, vocational skills, and income-generating activities. Using a mixed-methods design, the study sampled 120 students with various disabilities from three special and inclusive schools and administered pre- and post-training questionnaires, complemented by focus-group interviews and observation over a six-month intervention period. Quantitative analysis (paired t-tests and descriptive statistics) showed statistically significant improvements in participants’ entrepreneurial knowledge, confidence to start small businesses, and monthly earnings after the training. Qualitative findings corroborated these results: participants reported greater independence, improved problem-solving skills, and enhanced social inclusion; trainers and caregivers noted increased motivation and practical skill application. However, structural barriers—limited access to startup capital, inadequate adaptive training materials, and community stigma—moderated the full potential of outcomes. The study concludes that entrepreneurship education can substantially empower students with disabilities in Dekina LGA but must be paired with inclusive policies, accessible resources, and microfinance or grant support to sustain ventures. The study recommends that; the government should develop and enforce inclusive education policies that guarantee equal access to entrepreneurship programs for disabled students, Educational institutions should provide assistive technologies, inclusive learning materials, and disability-friendly infrastructure to support effective learning and Training content should be expanded to include vocational and digital skills, with a focus on real-world business practice.