The Influence of Educational Material Resources Procurement on Skills Acquisition Amongst Learners in Government Technical Schools in Mfoundi Division of Centre Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Technical and vocational education plays a significant role in equipping learners with practical competencies required for employment and national development. However, the effectiveness of technical education depends largely on the availability and proper procurement of educational material resources. This study examines the influence of educational material resources procurement on skills acquisition among learners in government technical schools in the Mfoundi Division of the Centre Region of Cameroon. The study was guided by the objective of determining how the procurement of educational material resources influences skills acquisition in technical schools. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, integrating qualitative approaches to obtain comprehensive dataas sujested by Kerlinger (1986). The target population consisted of administrators, teachers, and students from selected government technical secondary and high schools in Mfoundi Division. A sample size of 250 respondents was selected using purposive, convenient, and simple random sampling techniques in line with the reccomendations of Amin, (2005). Data were collected using interviews, focus group discussions, and observation checklists. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically and presented in narrative form (Gall et al., 2003). Findings revealed that the availability and adequacy of material resources such as workshops tools, laboratory equipment, library documents, and classroom infrastructure significantly influence learners’ ability to acquire technical skills. However, the study also identified challenges such as inadequate equipment, outdated workshop tools, insufficient learning materials, and overcrowded classrooms which hinder effective skills acquisition. The study concludes that proper procurement and management of educational material resources are essential for improving practical competence among learners in technical schools. It therefore recommends increased government investment in educational infrastructure, effective management of instructional materials, and continuous updating of workshop equipment to enhance skills acquisition in government technical schools.