Funding Gaps in Tertiary Education and Graduate Employability in Osun State

This study examines the relationship between funding gaps in tertiary institutions and the employability of graduates in Osun State, South West Nigeria. Underfunding of universities and polytechnics is a well-documented structural challenge in Nigerian higher education, limiting the capacity of institutions to provide modern laboratories, current library resources, qualified faculty, and industry-linked training programmes. The resulting quality deficits have been linked to the poor employability of graduates, who frequently enter the labour market ill-equipped for professional demands. The study employs a descriptive survey design and samples 300 recent graduates, lecturers, and industry employers from tertiary institutions and firms in Osun State. Data are gathered using structured questionnaires and analysed with mean ratings, standard deviation, and regression analysis. The study draws on the Human Capital Theory of Schultz. Findings indicate that graduates from better-funded programmes with stronger industry linkages demonstrate higher rates of formal employment within 12 months of graduation. Funding shortfalls are most acutely felt in laboratory-based and vocational programmes. The study recommends increased government budgetary commitment to tertiary education and the strengthening of university-industry partnerships in Osun State. Keywords: tertiary education funding, graduate employability, higher education, human capital, Osun State.