Education and Industrial Sociology in Nigeria: Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry

Abstract

The intersection of education and industrial sociology in Nigeria presents a critical framework for understanding the persistent disconnect between academic training and labor market demands. Despite significant investments in education, Nigeria continues to face high unemployment rates, underemployment, and a skills mismatch, highlighting systemic inefficiencies in aligning educational outcomes with industrial needs. This paper examines the role of education in workforce development, the dynamics of Nigeria’s industrial sector, and the sociostructural barriers hindering effective industry-academia collaboration. By analyzing curriculum relevance, labor market trends, and policy interventions, the study explores strategies to bridge the gap between education and industry, including vocational training enhancements, public-private partnerships, and educational reforms. The findings underscore the need for a more integrated approach to education and industrial sociology to foster sustainable economic growth and social mobility in Nigeria.