Role of Industry Linkages in Improving Vocational Education Relevance in Kano State

This study assessed the role of industry linkages in improving the relevance and quality of vocational education in Kano State, North West Nigeria. Industry linkage programmes, which connect vocational institutions with manufacturing firms, service companies, and professional bodies, are a recognized strategy for aligning curricula with labor market demands and providing students with real-world learning experiences. A survey design was employed, gathering data from 80 vocational education administrators, 120 instructors, and 50 industry representatives from Kano's textile, leather, and food processing sectors. A structured questionnaire and industry engagement audit checklist were administered. Results revealed that while over 70 percent of respondents recognized the value of industry partnerships, only 30 percent of institutions had active, structured linkage agreements. Existing partnerships were often informal and dependent on individual relationships rather than institutional policy. Students in institutions with functional industry linkages demonstrated higher practical competency and stronger employment outcomes. The study recommends that the Kano State Government enact a formal industry-institution partnership policy for technical education, create a vocational education industry liaison office, and provide tax incentives for companies that participate in student attachment and curriculum advisory programmes. These recommendations are aligned with Kano's ambition to expand its industrial base and skilled workforce. Keywords: industry linkages, vocational education, Kano State, curriculum relevance, institutional partnerships.