ENTREPRENEURSHIP SKILLS AND PRODUCT INNOVATION IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY INSTITUTION: A STUDY OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, IDAH, KOGI STATE.

This research investigates entrepreneurship skills and product innovation within the context of Nigerian tertiary institutions, with a focus on Federal Polytechnic, Idah, situated in Kogi State, the study aims to explore the extent to which entrepreneurship skills acquired by students contribute to fostering innovation in product development within the academic setting. The research employs a quantitative data collection methods. The population of the study consists of 200 National and Higher National Diploma students of Federal Polytechnic Idah, Kogi State. The sample size consists of 133 students. The study adopts correlation coefficient analysis to test the hypotheses. Findings from the study indicates that operational skills and product innovation is positively and significantly correlated, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.954 and a p-value of 0.000. Similarly, the relationship between technical skills and product innovation is positive and statistically significant, showing a correlation coefficient of r = 0.935 and a p-value of 0.000. Additionally, the connection between conceptual skills and product innovation is positive and statistically significant, revealing a correlation coefficient of r = 0.935 and a pvalue of 0.000. Lastly, the relationship between human or interpersonal skills and product innovation is positive and statistically significant, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.902 and a p-value of 0.000. The study concludes that entrepreneurship education in Nigerian tertiary institutions contributes significantly to the development of entrepreneurial skills and the promotion of product innovation among students. The study recommended that, institution should organize workshops, seminars, and guest lecturers featuring successful entrepreneurs to inspire and guide students.

1 29 Mar, 2024

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