STANDARDIZED HOME ECONOMICS EDUCATION: A PATHWAY FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE IN NIGERIA

Home Economics education plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with essential life skills, vocational competencies, and entrepreneurial knowledge necessary for economic independence. However, the lack of a standardized curriculum in Nigeria has led to inconsistencies in skill acquisition, limiting the potential for job creation and self-reliance. This paper explores the significance of standardizing Home Economics education as a strategic approach to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth. It highlights key strategies such as competency-based education, curriculum harmonization, digital integration, industry collaboration, and teacher training. By aligning Home Economics education with labor market demands and global best practices, students can acquire relevant skills in areas such as fashion design, catering, interior decoration, and financial literacy. Standardization ensures uniformity in training, enhances employability, and promotes small-scale enterprises, contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. The study recommends policy reforms, adequate funding, and enhance teacher training programs to sustain the effectiveness of Home Economics education as a pathway to economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.