Assessment of Shorthand Proficiency Among Business Education Students in Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State

This study assessed the level of shorthand proficiency among Business Education students at the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. Shorthand remains a critical competency for secretarial and administrative professionals, enabling efficient recording of spoken communication in organizational settings. Despite its importance, student proficiency in shorthand has reportedly been declining in many Nigerian polytechnics, potentially affecting graduate employability in administrative roles. This study sought to diagnose the extent of this problem within the Kwara State context. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The population comprised 240 ND and HND Business Education students at Federal Polytechnic Offa. Using stratified random sampling, 120 students were selected across academic levels. Shorthand dictation tests at 60, 80, and 100 words per minute, combined with a validated questionnaire on learning challenges, were used as data collection instruments. Mean and standard deviation were computed for analysis. The findings reveal that only 34 percent of sampled students met the 80 words per minute standard expected of HND graduates. Poor study habits, inadequate practice time, and limited access to audio shorthand materials were identified as the primary barriers. The study recommends that the polytechnic should introduce structured shorthand practice sessions, procure shorthand audio training software, and benchmark student progress against industry standards to restore shorthand proficiency among graduating Business Education students. Keywords: shorthand proficiency, business education, polytechnic, Kwara State, administrative skills