Owenvbivgie Robinson.O

This study investigates the influence of vocational skill acquisition programmes on the socioeconomic development of youths in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. Anchored on the Human Capital Theory, the research examines the availability of vocational programmes, their impact on unemployment, crime involvement, living standards, and the challenges hindering youth participation. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting a population of 57,659 youths, with a sample size of 100 respondents selected via simple random sampling using Yamane’s formula. Data were collected through a validated 20-item questionnaire (IVSAPSDYSQ) on a 4-point Likert scale and analyzed using mean scores and standard deviations. Findings reveal that programmes like tailoring, welding, ICT, and agriculture are widely available (Mean = 3.16, SD = 0.84) and significantly reduce unemployment (Mean = 2.84, SD = 0.96) and crime involvement (Mean = 2.76, SD = 0.93) while improving living standards (Mean = 3.05, SD = 0.88). However, challenges such as lack of awareness, inadequate facilities, financial constraints, and societal stigma (Mean = 3.16, SD = 0.89) impede participation. The study recommends enhanced programme accessibility, awareness campaigns, financial subsidies, and attitudinal change initiatives to maximize the socioeconomic benefits of vocational training for youths