The Roles of Entertainment Media on Substance Abuse among Technical College Students in Nigeria and Its Impacts on Their Skills Development

Abstract

Substance abuse, particularly among students of technical colleges, poses significant challenges to skills development and overall educational outcomes. Entertainment media comprising films, music, television, and social media has become a powerful influence in the lives of Nigerian youth. Unfortunately, the glamorisation of substance use by the media has influenced the normalisation of such behaviours among the youth, potentially leading students to engage in risky practices. This study aims to explore the intricate relationships between entertainment media consumption, substance abuse, and skills development among technical college students in Ogun state, Nigeria. The study is a descriptive survey carried out using a quantitative approach. Data from the respondents were collected using a research questionnaire. The study population consists of all the students of Ogun state-owned technical colleges of technical colleges however, the sample population is made up of 222 NTC 2 and 3 students randomly selected from 3 technical colleges one from each senatorial district. Findings from the study reveal that 41.1% of respondents agree there are cases of substance abuse among their mates. Furthermore, all the respondents agreed (x= 2.61; SD= 1.012) that the portrayal and use of substances on screen can motivate them to want to try it out. Lastly, the use of psychoactive substances abuse by technical college students has a negative impact on the students’ skills development quest. As a result, the following recommendations were made: schools should organise media literacy education, and positive media campaigns. Government should engage media creators to curb substance abuse glamorisation. Technical colleges should enhance their vocational guidance and counselling service. Lastly curriculum developers should incorporate Anti-drug abuse campaign in the curriculum.