Assessment of Sewing Skills Acquisition Among Female Students in Vocational Training Centres in Niger State

This study assesses the level of sewing skills acquisition among female students enrolled in vocational training centres in Niger State, North Central Nigeria. Sewing and garment construction are foundational skills in the Home Economics domain, with direct implications for youth employment and micro-enterprise development. The study adopts a descriptive survey design, targeting 220 female trainees in six vocational training centres in Minna and Kontagora senatorial districts. A structured performance checklist and questionnaire were used to collect data. Objectives include evaluating trainees' proficiency in basic and intermediate sewing techniques, identifying instructional methods used in the centres, and determining the adequacy of training facilities. Recent literature indicates that many vocational training graduates in Nigeria lack the requisite practical skills for employment due to inadequate equipment and poorly trained instructors. Data were analysed using mean ratings and standard deviation. The Competency-Based Education Theory underpins this study, emphasising measurable skill outcomes as the primary goal of vocational instruction. Findings are anticipated to reveal moderate levels of skill acquisition alongside significant infrastructural deficits in training facilities. Recommendations address the Niger State Technical Education Board and development partners to invest in modern sewing equipment and instructor retraining. Keywords: sewing skills, vocational training, female students, garment construction, Niger State.