Al-Hikmah University Journal

The problem of unemployment among secondary school leavers would be reduced if there are quality vocational education programmes to prepare competent teachers and inculcate vocational skills in school leavers. This study examined factors influencing implementation of vocational education programmes in Kwara State Colleges of Education, Nigeria. Four research questions guided the study. The study adopted survey research design. The population composed all vocational education students in Kwara State Colleges of Education, Nigeria. Three hundred and forty (340) vocational education students were randomly selected for the study. Researcher designed questionnaire was the instrument for the study. The instrument was validated by five (5) experts in vocational education. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed improper use of funds from government for vocational education programmes, shortage of qualified vocational educators, lack of facilities and poor perception of vocational education by students and parents are major factors influencing effective implementation of vocational education in Kwara State Colleges of Education. Recommendations include proper utilization of funds for vocational education programmes, regular trainings of manpower in vocational education, provision of well-equipped facilities for implementation of practical work and intensification of awareness on the benefit of vocational education programmes among others.