Assessing Molecular Biology Curriculum Relevance and Industry Alignment at Federal Universities in Southwestern Nigeria

The rapid evolution of molecular biology technologies, including next-generation sequencing, CRISPR applications, and metagenomics, creates a continuous imperative for curriculum revision in Nigerian universities to ensure graduates are equipped with industry-relevant competencies. This study assessed the relevance and industry alignment of undergraduate molecular biology curricula at four federal universities in Southwest Nigeria (Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, and University of Lagos). A mixed-methods design combined content analysis of current curriculum documents, structured interviews with 24 academic staff, and a survey of 60 pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry professionals on graduate competency expectations. Curriculum documents were benchmarked against the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) minimum academic standards and global molecular biology professional competency frameworks. Analysis revealed that core curricula were predominantly theory-heavy, with inadequate integration of bioinformatics, next-generation sequencing wet laboratory skills, and applied genomics modules. Industry stakeholders rated graduate proficiency in molecular diagnostic techniques and data analysis below expectations in 68% of responses. Recommendations include structured industry-academia collaboration mechanisms, addition of practical genomics modules, and integration of bioinformatics as a compulsory course from the second year. These findings contribute to an evidence base for curriculum reform at Southwest Nigerian federal universities. Keywords: molecular biology curriculum, industry alignment, higher education, bioinformatics, Southwest Nigeria.