Fabrication of Locally Sourced Teaching Aids and Technical Workshop Tools to Enhance Technical Education in Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu (ASCETA)

Technical education in Nigeria faces challenges such as insufficient workshop equipment, the high expense of imported tools and limited access to teaching materials. These issues impede practical skill development, which is a fundamental objective of vocational and technical education. This research examines the design, creation, implementation, and assessment of locally sourced teaching aids and engineering workshop tools developed for the Abia State College of Education (Technical) in Arochukwu (ASCETA). A developmental research framework was employed to create prototypes using local materials, including mild steel, recycled wood, salvaged mechanical parts, and accessible electrical components. The produced tools, such as lathe models, bending jigs, wiring boards, pneumatic demonstrations and carpentry tools, were reviewed by 15 experts regarding cost-effectiveness, functionality, durability, safety and instructional quality. Findings indicate that tools made locally cost between 45% and 70% less than their imported counterparts and received favorable ratings for usability and educational value from the experts. The study concludes that indigenous manufacturing represents a promising approach to enhancing technical education in Nigeria. Recommendations include the establishment of fabrication hubs, incorporating fabrication projects into educational programs, and building collaborations with local industries.