Empowering Women through TVET: Socio-Economic Impact of Female Technical and Vocational Education in Nigeria

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is recognized as a critical tool in the developmental agenda of emerging economies. According to UNESCO (2012), it fosters women's empowerment and promotes literacy, thus contributing significantly to national development. This study aimed to examine the acquisition of TVET by Nigerian females and assess its impact on individual empowerment and the broader national economy. Primary data were collected from 118 female graduates across 90 TVET institutions in Nigeria. The analysis focused on academic performance, practical skill acumen (PSA), empowerment outcomes, employment status, and contributions to economic development. Findings showed that most respondents achieved strong academic performance and exhibited high levels of PSA in their areas of specialization, indicating a significant contribution of TVET to the quality of female human capital. Employment analysis revealed that a large proportion of the graduates secured gainful employment with potential for career advancement. However, financial empowerment among the graduates was limited. The study also identified significant contributions to economic growth through job creation and revenue generation, alongside a notable correlation between empowerment and job creation. It also averred that female participation in TVET contributes positively to workforce development, socio-economic advancement, and job creation in Nigeria. Despite challenges in financial empowerment, the study underscores the essential role of TVET in achieving sustainable development through gender-inclusive education and economic engagement.