Availability and Utilisation of Instructional Materials in Technical Colleges in Rivers State, South South Nigeria

This study assesses the availability and utilisation of instructional materials in technical colleges across Rivers State, South South Nigeria. Technical and vocational education depends heavily on hands-on materials and functional equipment to develop practical skills among learners. Despite policy commitments to improve vocational education infrastructure, many technical colleges in Rivers State reportedly operate with outdated or insufficient instructional resources. The study employs a descriptive survey design with a sample of 180 technical teachers and 300 students selected from ten technical colleges through simple random sampling. Two validated instruments, a checklist and a questionnaire, were used to collect data on material availability and frequency of use. Data analysis employed mean scores and standard deviation. Findings reveal a moderate level of material availability but a low level of utilisation, primarily due to teacher reluctance to expose expensive equipment to student handling and inadequate maintenance culture. Subject areas such as electrical installation and auto mechanics reported the greatest material deficits. The study recommends regular procurement drives funded by the Rivers State government, establishment of maintenance units within colleges, and periodic teacher refresher courses on material utilisation. These findings are relevant to educational planners aiming to strengthen technical education in the Niger Delta region. Keywords: instructional materials, technical colleges, Rivers State, vocational education, utilisation