Impact of Computer Education on Entrepreneurship Skills among Polytechnic College of Education Technical Graduates in Southwest Nigeria Economic Frameworks

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of computer education on entrepreneurship skills among graduates from Polytechnics and Colleges of Education in Southwest Nigeria. The main objectives were to assess the relationship between exposure to computer education and the ability of graduates to initiate entrepreneurial ventures, and to identify differences in entrepreneurial skills across various technical disciplines. The study was guided by four research questions. The research employed an Ex-post-facto design, with a total population of 2,850 graduates from FCET Akoka, YABATECH, and The Polytechnic Ibadan. The sample consisted of 450 graduates, with 150 from each institution. A structured 26-item questionnaire was used for data collection, and the instrument was validated for content and face validity. The reliability coefficient of 0.86 was established using the Split-half method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, including Spearman’s Rank Order Correlation and One-Way ANOVA. The study found a significant positive relationship between computer education and the ability to initiate entrepreneurial ventures, with a strong correlation observed. Furthermore, significant differences in entrepreneurial skills were found across graduates from the three institutions. It was concluded that computer education significantly impacts entrepreneurship development. The study recommended the integration of ICT into all technical disciplines, enhanced policy implementation for entrepreneurship support, and the promotion of gender inclusivity in ICT training programs.