Relationship Between Vocational Education Qualifications and Income Levels of Graduates in Imo State

This study examines the relationship between vocational education qualifications and the income levels of graduates in Imo State, South East Nigeria. The economic returns to vocational and technical education are frequently debated, with some arguing that technical qualifications provide a faster pathway to gainful employment than academic degrees. Empirical evidence on the income outcomes of vocational graduates in Nigeria, particularly at the state level, remains limited. A descriptive survey design is employed, targeting 200 graduates of technical colleges and polytechnics who completed programmes between 2019 and 2023, drawn from Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe local government areas. A structured questionnaire gathers data on qualification type, years of experience, employment sector, and monthly income. Pearson correlation and regression analysis examine the relationship between qualification level and income. Findings are expected to reveal modest positive returns to higher vocational qualifications, with income disparities linked to employment sector, urban-rural location, and trade area specialisation. The study also explores the role of postqualification training and entrepreneurship in mediating income outcomes. Recommendations include postqualification skills upgrading programmes, labour market information services for vocational graduates, and entrepreneurship support schemes for self-employed technical workers. This study contributes to the economic analysis of vocational education in South East Nigeria and provides data for education planners and career guidance services seeking to position technical qualifications as financially rewarding pathways. Keywords: vocational qualifications, income levels, graduates, Imo State, economic returns