Competency Improvement Needs of Craftsmen in Motor Vehicle Mechanic Work for Enhancing Employability in Automobile Industries: Evidence from Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the competency improvement needs of craftsmen in motor vehicle mechanic work for enhancing employability in Ogun State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study sought to identify areas where craftsmen required improved competencies in order to remain relevant in the dynamic automobile industry. Three research questions guided the investigation, and a descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population consisted of 121 craftsmen currently engaged in motor vehicle mechanic work across industries in the study area. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, whose internal consistency was determined using Cronbach Alpha, yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.84, indicating high reliability. Data analysis was carried out using weighted mean and improvement Needed Index (INI). Findings revealed that craftsmen demonstrated significant competency deficiencies in critical areas, particularly in engine maintenance, braking systems and auto-electrical operations. The study concluded that these competencies are vital and should be systematically integrated into motor vehicle mechanic curricula in technical colleges to better prepare future graduates for industrial relevance. It was recommended that industries, training institutions, and professional associations should collaborate to organize regular hands-on workshops, refresher courses, and continuous professional development programs to ensure craftsmen keep pace with technological advancements in the automotive sector.