Cultivation of Polytechnic-Industry Linkage for Development and Delivery of Curriculum for Technical Education: A Case Study of The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro

The implication of the unsuitability of young Nigerian graduates for available jobs in the industry raises the question as to the appropriateness of the training received while in school. It has exacerbated the unemployment problem in the Country, and it is worrisome. Of a necessity in curriculum development and delivery, therefore is the adoption of an approach that takes cognizance of the job function of the graduates in the industry and/or workplace and the skills required to perform on the job. In other words, the curriculum must target the job market demand and needs. This paper reports on the development of a demand-led curriculum in National Diploma Cement Engineering Technology through the partnership of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro with Cement Industry, Cement Training Institute of Nigeria, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, and the National Board for Technical Education. The paper concludes that the emerging graduates from the implementation of the curriculum would have acquired the appropriate skills for the job, and would be acceptable and fit to perform effectively in the industry. Besides, opportunities for earning industry research income and reputation through the provision of research support to the industry is an added benefit derivable from the linkage.