Assessment of Non-Formal Education Centres and Skill Acquisition in Sokoto State

This study assessed the operational effectiveness of non-formal education centres in facilitating skill acquisition among out-of-school youth in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria. Non-formal education is widely recognised as a viable pathway for equipping marginalised youth with practical competencies; however, evidence on programme delivery quality and outcomes within North West Nigeria remains limited. The study employed a descriptive survey design involving 180 participants drawn from six non-formal education centres across three local government areas. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires, direct observation checklists, and interviews with programme facilitators. Results indicated that most centres suffered from inadequate infrastructure, insufficient learning materials, and poorly trained facilitators, all of which constrained the quality of skill acquisition outcomes. Despite these challenges, participants who completed tailored vocational modules reported improved confidence in self-employment activities, particularly in tailoring, leather work, and small-scale food processing. Facilitator motivation was strongly linked to timely remuneration, which many centres failed to provide consistently. The study recommends that the Sokoto State Agency for Mass Education prioritise facilitator training workshops, establish standardised curriculum frameworks, and forge partnerships with local industries to provide internship opportunities for programme graduates. Improved budgetary allocations and community involvement in centre management were also identified as critical success factors. The findings offer practical insights for education planners and policymakers aiming to strengthen non-formal education delivery in North West Nigeria. Keywords: non-formal education, skill acquisition, out-of-school youth, Sokoto State, programme effectiveness.