Authors : Kabir Haruna Kaita; Sanusi Sani Danmali

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 12 - December

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25dec008

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Abstract : Conflict-affected regions in Nigeria, such as Sokoto State, face significant challenges in providing quality vocational and entrepreneurial education due to insecurity, displacement, and inadequate infrastructure. Traditional entrepreneurship teaching methods rely heavily on theory and offer limited opportunities for students to develop practical skills necessary for self-reliance. This study investigates the role of computer simulations as an innovative approach to enhance entrepreneurial competencies among secondary school students in these at-risk communities. A quasi-experimental mixed-method design was adopted, involving 200 senior secondary school students drawn from conflict-prone schools through stratified random sampling. Participants were divided into experimental (simulation-based instruction) and control (traditional instruction) groups. Quantitative data were collected using pre- and post-test Entrepreneurial Competency Tests (ECT), while qualitative insights were obtained through structured observations and focus group discussions. Data analysis combined descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and ANCOVA for quantitative outcomes, with thematic analysis applied to qualitative findings. Projected results indicate that simulation-based instruction will significantly improve entrepreneurial skills, engagement, and motivation compared to traditional approaches. Anticipated challenges include limited ICT infrastructure, digital literacy gaps, and policy constraints, with recommended solutions focusing on blended learning models, teacher training, and sustained investment in technology. This study contributes to bridging the theory–practice gap in entrepreneurship education and aligns with Nigeria’s Education Sector Plan (2021–2025) and Sustainable Development Goal 4 on inclusive quality education. The findings will inform policy reforms and scalable strategies for integrating simulation-based learning into secondary school curricula to promote youth self-reliance and economic resilience in conflict-prone regions.

Keywords : Computer Simulations, Entrepreneurial Skills, At-Risk Students, Vocational Education, Teacher Training, Sokoto State.

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