Exploration of Entrepreneurship and Employability Skills Needed for Poverty Alleviation: Evidence from Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study focused on the exploration of entrepreneurship and employability skills needed for poverty alleviation in Oyo State. The study answered two research questions and tested two null hypotheses in line with the stated objectives. The target population of the study comprised two hundred and seven (207) 300Level and 400Level students in the Department of Educational Management in University of Ibadan, Nigeria. No sampling was done as the population is neither too small nor dispersal. Data were collected using a self-designed questionnaire titled “Questionnaire on Entrepreneurship and Employability Skills needed for Poverty Alleviation (QEESPA)”. Findings reveal that Soft skills are needed for poverty alleviation in Ibadan North Local Government area of Oyo State, Nigeria (mean = 3.22, SD = 0.71) and there was no significant difference in the mean responses of male and female respondents regarding business skills and poverty alleviation in Ibadan North Local Government area of Oyo State, Nigeria (t205 = 1.191, P>0.05). Based on the findings made, it is concluded that business and soft skills are essential for reducing poverty in Oyo State Nigeria, specifically in the Ibadan North Local Government Area and society s affected by absence or lack of these skills. Based on the conclusion drawn, it is recommended, among others, that appropriate government agencies should launch a vigorous awareness campaign to educate the public on the value of acquiring business skills.