EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAMMES ON ENTREPRENEURIAL GROWTH AND INNOVATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS

Abstract

This study explored the impact of five flagship adult education programmes on entrepreneurial growth and innovation at the University of Lagos. Specifically, it examined the Mass Literacy Programme, Internship Programme, Women’s Empowerment Workshops, Community Development Programme, and the Entrepreneurship Empowerment Scheme. A descriptive survey (n = 200) using a structured questionnaire assessed innovation and entrepreneurship outcomes. Pearson correlation revealed significant positive associations between programme participation and innovation (r = .228, p < .01) as well as entrepreneurship effectiveness (r = .491, p < .01). High-participation learners recorded higher innovation scores (M = 18.4, SD = 6.1) compared to low-participation peers (M = 13.2, SD = 7.3). Among Community Development participants, 62% initiated at least one income-generating idea within six months, while 54% of Entrepreneurship Empowerment attendees launched micro-enterprises within three months, with average monthly revenue rising by 36% post-training. Recommendations include disaggregating evaluations by programme, integrating project-based learning, establishing innovation accreditation standards, and designing hybrid delivery models for adult learners.