Research Article

A PROPOSED FRAMEWORK FOR INDUSTRY-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS TO ENHANCE PRACTICAL SKILLS AND EMPLOYABILITY OF NIGERIAN GRADUATES

Stella OFOR-DOUGLAS1*, Nkpolu OROWORUKWO1
1 Rivers State University, Nigeria
* Corresponding author: Stellaofor031@gmail.com
Published: Jun, 2026
Pages: 8 - 18
Views: 21
Downloads: 19

Abstract

The study examines a proposed framework for industry-university partnership to enhance practical skills and
employability of Nigerian graduates. This research paper explores how collaborations between industries and
universities can enhance graduates' employability in today's dynamic job market. In emphasizing the significance
of negotiation, it emphasized the importance of establishing strong partnerships to equip students for professional
success. The study aims to bridge the gap between academic training and workforce demands. Also, in uncovering
effective negotiation strategies, the research aims to enhance graduates' career readiness through industry
university collaborations. The abstract reinforced the vital role of industry university partnerships in preparing
graduates for today's university education environment and examines the processes involved in establishing
effective collaborations. An introduction is provided giving the background of this paper’s topic. The literature
review displays current write-ups on encouraging collaborations between industries and universities to increase
employability of graduates. Issues such as lack of motivation on students’ part, university’s failure to provide
sustainable collaborations with industries will be analyzed. The conclusion will round up this paper by
emphasizing the possibility of organizing effective collaborations between universities and industries for the
benefit of students’ future. The paper stressed on the significance of clear communication and common objectives
to address challenges and emphasize the role of intermediary organizations and government policies in facilitating
these partnerships. Ultimately, this research contributes to discussions on universities' economic development
roles and workforce skill enhancement, proposing negotiation strategies and collaboration models applicable
globally to improve graduates' employability.

Keywords

Industry University Partnership Employability Graduates University education

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How to Cite

OFOR-DOUGLAS, S., & OROWORUKWO, N. (2026). A PROPOSED FRAMEWORK FOR INDUSTRY-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS TO ENHANCE PRACTICAL SKILLS AND EMPLOYABILITY OF NIGERIAN GRADUATES. Journal of Educational Research and Development, 21(2), 8 - 18.

S. OFOR-DOUGLAS, and N. OROWORUKWO, "A PROPOSED FRAMEWORK FOR INDUSTRY-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS TO ENHANCE PRACTICAL SKILLS AND EMPLOYABILITY OF NIGERIAN GRADUATES," Journal of Educational Research and Development, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 8 - 18, June 2026.

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