EXPLORING THE EFFECT OF TRAINING AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SMES IN ENUGU STATE

The study explored the effect of training and stakeholder engagement on the performance of SMEs in Enugu state. The specific objectives are to: Iidentify the effect of training on the employee development and ascertain the effect of stakeholder engagement on growth of SMEs. The study used the descriptive survey design approach. The primary source of data was the administration of questionnaire. A total population of 911 staff was used. The sample size of 270 for the study was determined using Cochran (1963) formula. Two hundred and forty-eight (248) returned the questionnaire and accurately filled. Data was presented and analyzed using Likert Scale and the hypotheses using Z - test. The findings indicated that training had significant positive effect on the employee development Z(95, n = 248), 6.541 < 9.271, P. <.05 and Stakeholder engagement had significant positive effect on growth of SMEs in Enugu State Z(95, n = 248), 5.525 < 9.208, P. <.05. The study concluded that Training and Stakeholder engagement had significant positive effect on employee development and growth of SMEs in Enugu State. The study recommended among others that to address employee weaknesses and builds a reliable and skilled workforce, Training is very essential in organisations and should be taking seriously to enhance the individual's level of awareness.