Acquiring Entrepreneurial Skills for Sustainable Development: Case for a New Senior Secondary School Curriculum in Nigeria

Entrepreneurship has emerged as a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development in modern economies. In Nigeria, where youth unemployment and economic inequality present significant challenges, entrepreneurship offers a viable solution for job creation, social mobility, and economic diversification. This article examines the role of entrepreneurial skills in fostering both personal and national development, with a specific focus on their integration into the Nigerian secondary school curriculum. The study explores the critical role entrepreneurial education plays in equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex and competitive labour market. By analysing the current state of entrepreneurship education in Nigerian secondary schools, this article identifies existing gaps and proposes strategies to enhance the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education. These strategies include curriculum reforms, improved teacher training, and increased emphasis on experiential learning. The findings underscore the importance of a well-rounded entrepreneurial education in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges and advancing the nation’s broader sustainable development goals. Lastly, the article advocates for a more robust integration of entrepreneurial skills into the education system to empower Nigeria’s youth and spur long-term national growth.