THE IMPERATIVES FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT THROUGH CHEMISTRY EDUCATION AMONG STUDENTS IN FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

This study explores the imperatives for entrepreneurial skills development through chemistry education among students in the Federal College of Education. The research examines how chemistry as a practical and applied science can contribute to equipping learners with relevant entrepreneurial competencies such as problem-solving, creativity, product formulation, and small-scale industrial production. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected through questionnaires administered to chemistry students and lecturers to assess their perceptions of entrepreneurship integration within the curriculum. Findings revealed that chemistry education provides significant opportunities for skill acquisition in areas such as soap and detergent production, cosmetics formulation, food preservation, polymer use, and laboratory-based innovations. The results also indicated that limited facilities, inadequate practical exposure, and insufficient entrepreneurship-oriented teaching strategies hinder optimal skill development. The study concludes that strengthening practical chemistry, improving laboratory resources, and integrating entrepreneurship-focused projects into teaching will enhance students’ readiness for self-reliance. Recommendations include curriculum enrichment, capacity building for lecturers, improved funding, and collaboration with small-scale industries to promote hands-on entrepreneurial experiences.