INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES FOR ALIGNING HIGHER EDUCATION WITH LABOUR MARKET DEMAND IN THE 21ST CENTURY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The concern of this study is on the innovative strategies for aligning higher education with labour market demand in the 21^st century in Nigeria using the correlational research design. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire. The study adopted the mean and standard deviation statistical tools to answer the research questions and tested the single hypothesis with the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient at a 0.05 significance level. The findings revealed a very strong and significant relationship between innovative strategies in higher education and labour market demand in Nigeria (r = 0.998; p < 0.05). The study concluded that Education is the most significant pillar that underpins individual, societal and economic growth and development of any nation, therefore it should be given all it takes and that aligning Nigeria higher education with labour market demand is crucial for driving economic growth, reducing unemployment and improving living standards. Based on the findings in this study, it is majorly recommended that the government should involve employers and external bodies in higher education programmes and curriculum development and try to implement industry based curriculum that will incorporate digital skills and emerging technologies.