Digital Technology Utilisation, Practical Training and Industry Skills Gaps in Tertiary Education in Anambra State, Nigeria

Digital transformation is reshaping workplace skill needs, placing greater emphasis on digital competence and practical training for graduate employability and industry readiness. However, concerns persist that tertiary education may not sufficiently translate digital awareness, technological resources, and curriculum provisions into the practical competencies industry requires. The study was motivated by the desire to gain insight into the use of digital technology, the implementation of practical training and the perceived skills gap in the industry in tertiary education in Anambra State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined digital technology utilization among the Polytechnic respondents, considered indicators from a neutral perspective, compared the implementation of practical training and curriculum between the University and Polytechnic respondents and explored reasons for gaps in industry skills among the respondents. Structured questionnaires were used to gather primary data: 84 respondents from the University and 116 respondents from the Polytechnic, as well as industry-related responses. The results indicated that there was a high level of awareness among the Polytechnic students of the digital tools (M = 4.750, p < 0.001) and preference for using them by the students (M = 4.543, p < 0.001), but not among the lecturers (M = 2.862, p = 0.106). University–Polytechnic differences were substantial for practical lessons in curricula, χ²(4) = 151.700, p < 0.001, V = .871, and practical-class coverage, χ²(4) = 110.332, p < 0.001, V = 0.743. Poor access to tools (M = 4.105) and outdated/dated digital tools (M = 4.000) were significant factors in self-reported skills gaps (p < 0.001). The study concludes that the availability of technology needs to be backed by effective use of technology and practical application. It calls for an upgrade of the digital infrastructure and enhancement of hands-on training based on industry requirements.