TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AS A DRIVER OF GRADUATE EMPLOYABILITY IN BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA

This study examines at the role of Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) as a driver of graduate employability in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The objectives were to Assess the current state of TVET programs in relation to industry requirements, identify challenges faced by TVET graduates in securing employment, propose strategies for improving curriculum relevance through school-industry collaboration. A mixed-methods approach was adopted using survey- questioner and interview, the population of the study was 600. Using Krejcie and Morgan's (1970) sample size table for finite populations 150 respondents including TVET teachers and students from three institutions: Federal Polytechnic Ekowe, Niger Delta University, and Bayelsa State College of Health. The findings reveal an average view of curricular relevance (mean score = 3.47) and significant challenges in employability, primarily a lack of practical training (mean score = 4.21) and outdated curricula. The study highlights the importance for greater industry involvement and modifications to the curriculum to more closely align academic accomplishments with labor market demands. Formal collaboration with industries, employability skills training, and prioritizing practical training opportunities are some of the recommendations.