Leveraging On Technology Incubation Programme for Skills Acquisition and Job Creation among Women and Youths in Nigeria

Abstract

The study examines the role of the Technology Incubation program in leveraging skills acquisition, and sustainable job creation among women and youths in Nigeria. This study adopted a survey and analysis of existing data research design methods. The population for this study consists of staff and Entrepreneurs of Technology Incubation Centres (TICs). The study population covers two selected (2) Technology Incubation Centres in each Geo-political Zone of the Federation. This study uses both primary and secondary methods of data collection. The primary data consists of questionnaires, interviews, and observation methods. Questionnaires were administered to entrepreneurs/incubate while the staff of Technology Incubation Centres was interviewed and observation was used to complement both the questionnaire and interview. Statistical Package for Social Science such as regression analysis was used for hypotheses testing. Data entered into the package was verified to minimize human data entry errors. The hypotheses were tested at a 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that the programs have trained techno-entrepreneurs and created employment opportunities for women and youths. Employment can be reduced, economic growth stimulated, and social inclusion improved through the implementation of such programs. The study revealed that Technology Incubation Programme (TIP) is a worthy program that trained and provided employment opportunities for women and the young population in Nigeria. These hubs provided tech entrepreneurs with the tools needed to succeed. Included in this are resources such as social amenities, mentoring and training programs, and cutting-edge hardware and software. TIP can provide a realistic opportunity for women and young people in Nigeria to increase their employability and acquire new skills. More women and young people will be encouraged to launch and build successful technology-based businesses if more TIP centers are set up and the opportunities they present are better publicized. The study concludes that Government and the management of TIP should pay special attention to technologically important areas including IT, renewable energy, agrotech, e-commerce, and digital marketing. Encourage Networking by setting up opportunities for people to meet and talk to others in their field, as well as investors and future jobs. Internships, jobs, and partnerships can all result from these associations.