Perception of Parents Toward Technical and Vocational Education in Imo State

This study investigated the perceptions of parents toward technical and vocational education (TVE) in Imo State, South East Nigeria. Parental attitudes are widely acknowledged as a critical determinant of children's educational choices, and in many Nigerian communities, a persistent bias favors university education over technical and vocational pathways. Using a descriptive survey design, 400 parents were randomly selected from rural, urban, and semi-urban communities in six local government areas of Imo State. A 38-item structured questionnaire, the Parental Perception of Vocational Education Scale (PPVES), was validated and administered. Results indicated that the majority of parents held negative perceptions of TVE, associating it with academic failure and lower social status. Parents with higher educational attainment and those in skilled trades were more positively disposed toward vocational education. Religion, cultural norms, and economic aspirations were identified as moderating factors. The study recommends a sustained public sensitization campaign through community town halls, religious institutions, and local radio, targeted specifically at parents. The Imo State Government should also create high-profile recognition events celebrating vocational graduates, and secondary school principals should organize annual parent-teacher forums dedicated to discussing the value of technical education. These recommendations align with national efforts to destigmatize vocational pathways. Keywords: parental perception, vocational education, Imo State, attitude, South East Nigeria.