Title: Comparative Analysis Of International Models Of School-Industry Linkages In Technology Education: Implications For Graduates Skills Development In The Nigeria's Dual Mandate Colleges Of Education
Authors: IDIBIA Clinton Nwachukwu PhD, ORDU Charles Ndubuisi PhD,THOMAS Chinujinim Godstime PhD
Volume: 10
Issue: 9
Pages: 345-352
Publication Date: 2026/09/28
Abstract:
School-industry linkage is a pivotal strategy for enhancing the productivity of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) globally, as it strengthens graduate employability, skills relevance, and workforce readiness. It was in line with this vision that the federal government of Nigeria approved the dual mandate policy where colleges of education can run both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and bachelor's degrees. Countries with robust economies, such as Germany, Singapore, France, the United States, and China, have established effective frameworks that integrate classroom learning with industry-based training, guided by supportive policies and structured curricula. Models like Germany's Dual Training System, Singapore's Factory School Model, France's school-based system, the United States Career and technical education, in contrast, Nigeria's TVET school-industry linkages are relatively weak, characterized by fragmented Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), limited work-based learning, inadequate infrastructure, and minimal government and industry support. Comparative analysis reveals that Nigeria could enhance its TVET productivity by adopting international best practices which the dual mandate policy in college of education is meant to strengthen skills and manpower development through internship and standardized certification processes. Key challenges to Nigerian TVET implementation include insufficient funding, poor coordination, weak industry participation, and limited technological integration. Strengthening formal partnerships, improving instructor capacity, and enforcing policy frameworks are critical strategies to address these gaps. Effective adoption of international models tailored to Nigeria's socio-economic context can improve the quality, relevance, and employability of TVET graduates, thereby contributing to national economic growth.