Higher Education and Youth Employability in Oyo Metropolis, Oyo State of Nigeria

This study examined the impact of higher education on youth employability in Oyo metropolis, focusing on three institutions in Oyo metropolis: Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Ekiti State University affiliated program with Emmanuel Alayande University, and the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo. Using a descriptive survey, data was collected from 200 respondents selected through simple random sampling. The research instrument, Higher Education and Youth Employability in Oyo metropolis Questionnaire (HEYEOMQ), featured both open- and closed-ended questions. The analysis employed frequency counts, percentages, and chi-square tests to assess the impact of higher education on youth employability in Oyo metropolis. Findings revealed that while higher education enhances cognitive skills and technical knowledge, graduates often face challenges of skills mismatches and limited job opportunities. The study recommends curriculum reforms to align academic programs with industry needs; stronger collaborations between academia and industry, and improved career services. These strategies, alongside practical trainings and industry partnerships, are crucial to better preparing graduates for the job market, addressing the skills gap, and improving employment prospects in Oyo metropolis.