SKILLS POSSESSED BY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE STUDENTS FOR CREATION OF WEALTH THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN NORTH CENTRAL ZONE: A CASE STUDY OF DEPARTMENT OF LIS FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC NASARAWA

This study investigates the entrepreneurial skills possessed by Library and Information Science (LIS) students and their potential to create wealth in the North Central Zone of Nigeria, with a focus on the Department of Library and information Science at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa. The research explores the extent to which Library and information Science students are equipped with practical and innovative skills that align with entrepreneurial opportunities in the information sector. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to Library and information Science students and academic staff. The findings reveal that Library and information Science students possess a range of marketable skills including information organization, digital literacy, records management, research and data analysis, and ICT competencies, which can be harnessed for entrepreneurial ventures such as information consultancy, database services, digital archiving, and e-publishing. However, the study also identifies gaps in business acumen and access to mentorship that hinder the effective transition from skill possession to wealth creation. The paper recommends curriculum enhancement, entrepreneurship training, and institutional support to empower LIS students to transform their knowledge and skills into viable economic opportunities. This research contributes to the discourse on LIS education and youth entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s knowledge economy.