Impact of Poverty on Access to Vocational Education Among Out-of-School Youth in Sokoto State

This study investigated the impact of poverty on access to vocational education among out-of-school youth in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria. Sokoto State records one of the highest poverty rates in Nigeria, and a significant proportion of school-age children are unable to complete basic education, let alone access secondary-level vocational programmes. The study adopted a survey design, recruiting 350 out-of-school youth between the ages of 15 and 24 from three local government areas through purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured interviews and focus group discussions. Findings revealed that the cost of school fees, uniforms, and examination levies were primary barriers to accessing vocational schools, while family pressure to contribute to household income also diverted youth from education. Youth who accessed informal apprenticeships reported better skill development than those who attended underfunded formal vocational centres. The study recommends a targeted state-funded conditional cash transfer programme specifically for vocational school enrolment, elimination of fees at state technical colleges, and establishment of community-based vocational training hubs that accommodate working youth. NGO partnerships with organizations such as the Sokoto State Poverty Alleviation Agency should be formalized to expand outreach. This research contributes to understanding access barriers in Nigeria's most economically challenged geopolitical zones. Keywords: poverty, vocational education access, out-of-school youth, Sokoto State, North West Nigeria.