REFORMING TEACHER EDUCATION CURRICULUM FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN BENUE STATE: BRIDGING EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT GAPS

Abstract

The teacher education curriculum in Benue State, Nigeria, has been criticized for its limited integration of entrepreneurship education, which is crucial for equipping teacher trainees with skills for alternative career paths outside formal teaching roles. This study assessed the extent of entrepreneurship education integration, identified gaps, and proposed actionable reforms to address unemployment and enhance graduate employability. Guided by two research questions and two hypotheses tested at a 0.05 significance level using chi-square and frequency analysis, the study employed a descriptive survey design. Data were collected from 200 respondents, including teacher educators, trainees, and curriculum developers, across selected teacher education institutions. Findings revealed a moderate inclusion of entrepreneurship education, often as electives or fragmented components within the curriculum. Strategies for reform include embedding entrepreneurship education as a core component, fostering partnerships with local businesses, introducing mentorship programs, and enhancing professional development for teacher educators. Additionally, incorporating project-based learning, experiential opportunities, and ensuring adequate policy support are critical for aligning the curriculum with labor market demands. The study concludes that integrating hands-on entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities has significantly enhance the entrepreneurial skills of teacher trainees, preparing them to navigate a dynamic labor market and contribute to socio-economic development. The study recommends revising the curriculum to include practical skills through workshops and experiential learning, establishing mentorship initiatives to connect trainees with successful entrepreneurs, strengthening collaborations with local businesses to provide real-world exposure, and ensuring adequate funding and resources, including modern facilities and instructional materials, to support these initiatives effectively.