Curriculum Implementation Challenges and Learning Outcomes in Vocational Secondary Schools in Oyo State

This study examines the challenges confronting curriculum implementation and their effects on learning outcomes in vocational secondary schools in Oyo State, South West Nigeria. Vocational education is a priority area in Nigeria's education policy, intended to equip secondary school leavers with marketable skills that reduce youth unemployment. However, implementation of the vocational curriculum has been undermined by a range of institutional, material, and personnel-related challenges that limit the quality of skills training delivered. The study adopts a descriptive survey design and samples 160 vocational teachers, workshop instructors, and school administrators from 20 vocational secondary schools across Oyo State. Data are gathered through questionnaires and structured interviews, and analysed with mean scores and chi-square tests. The study is grounded in Tyler's Rational Curriculum Model. Findings reveal that outdated workshop equipment, shortage of trained vocational teachers, low student enrolment in technical subjects, and inadequate industry partnership are the primary obstacles to effective curriculum implementation. Schools with stronger industry linkages and updated equipment demonstrate better student practical competency outcomes. The study recommends a comprehensive audit of vocational school infrastructure in Oyo State and the establishment of a state-level industry-school partnership framework. Keywords: curriculum implementation, vocational education, learning outcomes, secondary schools, Oyo State.