NEED FOR ADEQUATE TRAINING FACILITIES AND THEIR IMPACTS ON THE TRAINING OF SECRETARIES IN ABIA STATE POLYTECHNIC, ABA

ABSTRACT The training of professional secretaries requires not only theoretical instruction but also sufficient practical exposure through modern training facilities. This study investigates the need for adequate training facilities and their impact on the training of secretaries in Abia State Polytechnic, Aba. The objective of the study is to evaluate the availability of training resources, determine their adequacy, and examine how these facilities influence the skill development of secretarial students. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population consisted of secretarial students and lecturers within the Department of Office Technology and Management. Data were collected using structured questionnaires distributed among respondents. The collected data were analyzed using simple percentage and frequency distribution. Findings from the study revealed that many training facilities necessary for effective secretarial training are either inadequate, outdated, or poorly maintained. Equipment such as computers, typing machines, office simulation laboratories, and internet-enabled resources were found to be insufficient relative to the number of students enrolled in the program. As a result, students experience limited practical exposure which affects their readiness for professional office environments. The study concludes that adequate training facilities significantly influence the quality of secretarial education. Without sufficient infrastructure, the objective of producing competent secretaries capable of functioning efficiently in modern offices becomes difficult to achieve. The research therefore recommends increased investment in training equipment, improved maintenance culture, and periodic upgrading of facilities to match technological advancements.