Availability of Teaching Materials for Home Economics Education in Adamawa State Secondary Schools

This study assessed the availability and adequacy of teaching materials for home economics education in secondary schools in Adamawa State, North East Nigeria. Effective home economics instruction depends on the availability of cooking equipment, sewing machines, nutritional resources, and demonstration materials, yet many schools in northeastern Nigeria face persistent material shortages that compromise teaching quality. A descriptive survey was conducted across 22 schools in five local government areas, with data collected from 110 home economics teachers using a validated materials inventory checklist and structured questionnaire. Results revealed that fewer than 40 percent of schools possessed functioning sewing machines, and fewer than 35 percent had adequately equipped food laboratories. Materials that existed were often outdated, damaged, or in insufficient quantities for class sizes averaging 45 students. Teachers reported improvising with personal resources, which placed undue financial burden on them and reduced instructional effectiveness. The study recommends that the Adamawa State Secondary Education Board develop and enforce a standard equipment list for home economics laboratories, allocate dedicated procurement budgets, and explore partnerships with consumer goods companies for material donations. Teacher welfare packages should also include material allowances. This study adds to evidence on the material deprivation affecting vocational education quality in northeastern Nigeria and informs budget advocacy for the sector. Keywords: teaching materials, Home Economics, secondary schools, Adamawa State, vocational education.