Abstract
This paper examined the causes and consequences of instructor shortages in Nigeria's technical colleges and proposes strategic interventions as a panacea for achieving sustainable development in the TVET sector. Through an analysis of existing literature, policy frameworks, and empirical data, the study seeks to underscore the urgency of prioritizing human resource development within technical education in Nigeria. The ultimate goal is to highlight practical and scalable solutions that can reposition Nigeria's TVET institutions as hubs of excellence for skill acquisition, job creation, and national development. The study examined the problem of the study, problem of instructor shortages in TVET institutions in Nigeria, possible drivers of Instructor shortages in technical colleges in Nigeria, the impact of Instructor shortage on technical colleges in Nigeria, overcoming instructor shortage in technical colleges in Nigeria and panacea for sustainable development in Nigerian TVET Institutions. Based on the existing literature, the findings revealed a severe shortage of technical instructors in Nigerian TVET institutions, with over 40% of public technical college positions unfilled and many instructors underqualified. Contributing factors include geographic disparities, poor funding, weak incentives, limited career progression, and a brain drain of skilled professionals. Also, conclusions were made and the following recommendations were drawn among other: The government and TVET institutions should offer competitive remuneration, job security, and career development pathways to attract and retain qualified technical instructors and they should also establish well-funded training programs, foster collaborations, provide special allowances for rural or underserved regions,
Key Words: TVET, Instructor, Shortages, Technical Colleges, Panacea
Publication Date: 2025-12-10