A framework for training and development of construction craft skills in Nigeria.

The Nigerian construction sector presently accounts for about 1.4% of the nation's GDP, even though its contribution to total GDP seems to have remained, extremely low; the sector is yet to realise its full potential. The sector is expanding strongly with a growth of 10% per year and is supported by multiple real estate projects and by the modernisation and development of infrastructures which offer new opportunities for the construction sector. The nation's approach to the training and development of construction related craftspeople, however, has been general rather than specific; and the various reforms on technical, vocational education and training (TVET) have not succeeded in tackling the perennial craft skills shortage crisis in the sector. This research project focused on formulating and validating a framework for achieving effectiveness and sustainability in the training and development of construction craft in the Nigerian construction sector, with emphasis on addressing the factors militating against securing and sustaining the interest of the youth population in acquiring construction related crafts skills.In order to collect a robust data to adequately address the goal of the study, secondary data were collected through an in-depth review of related literature. Quantitative data were elicited through a questionnaire survey while the gathering of qualitative data adopted the semistructured interview and document analysis approaches. This mixed-method approach generated data that formed the basis for the development of a unique and novel best practice framework for the training and development of construction related crafts people in the Nigerian construction industry. The framework, which was validated by experienced industry-based professionals and academics; was adjudged capable of ensuring effectiveness and enhancing sustainability in craft skills training and development in the nation's construction sector. The study concluded that in order to achieve sustainability and effectiveness, crafts skills training and development in the nation's construction sector must be accorded a specific attention. The establishment of a regulatory organ vested with the responsibilities for implementing and regulating skills training and development in the construction sector is imperative. Apart from facilitating career progression of crafts people and adequately addressing the factors inhibiting the interest of prospective trainees; effective guidance and counselling systems must be provided for the purpose of sensitizing the youths and other potential trainees on the importance and economic prospects inherent in pursuing construction related craft careers. The Construction Craft Skills Training and Development (CCSTD) Framework is a major contribution to knowledge in this area. It is recommended for adoption by the government, construction sector, professional bodies, training providers and other related stakeholders; as a guide on skills training and development matters in the Nigerian construction sector.