http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/72 2026-07-30T20:43:17Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31809 Title: Implementing Competency-Based Education and training in Technical Colleges: A Realistic Approach to Producing Skilled Workforce for Sustainable Industrial Development Authors: Eze, C. P.; Mojekwu, O. E.; Omeje, H. O.; Igwe, C. O. 2021-01-01T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31786 Title: Awareness and Engagement with Artificial Intelligence Technologies as Predictors of Undergraduate Readiness in Building and Woodwork Technology for Construction Practice in Benue State Authors: Nule, J. S.; Upwa, F. E.; Nwokolo-Ojo, J. O.; Igwe, C. O.; Sesugh, T. Abstract: This study investigates the levels of awareness and engagement with Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies among undergraduate students in building and woodwork technology programmes in Nigeria, and examines their preparedness for professional practice in the construction industry. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 167 students across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education using a validated 20-item questionnaire (Cronbach's α = 0.78). Descriptive statistics revealed moderate levels of AI awareness (Mₜ = 1.97, SDₜ = 0.77) and engagement (Mₜ = 2.28, SDₜ = 0.79), with polytechnic students demonstrating the highest awareness and university students reporting the greatest engagement. However, students exhibited limited readiness (Mₜ = 2.16, SDₜ = 0.85) to apply AI technologies in real-world construction scenarios. Regression and correlation analyses (α = 0.05) indicated a statistically significant positive relationship between AI awareness, engagement, and industry readiness, though the explained variance was modest. The findings underscore critical gaps in current curricular integration of AI applications, such as machine learning and automated systems, within construction-related disciplines. Based on these results, the study recommends targeted interventions, including enhanced AI-focused coursework, practical training initiatives, and faculty development programmes, to bridge the disparity between academic training and industry requirements. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31776 Title: Investigation on The Levels of Awareness and Engagement with Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technologies among Undergraduate Students in Building and Woodwork Technology. Authors: Nule, J.S.; Upwa, F.E.; Nwokolo-Ojo, J. O.; Igwe, C.O.; Tar, S. Abstract: The study assessed the challenges and sustainability strategies of solar power microgridimplementation in rural communities in Kogi and Niger States. Two research questionsand two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey researchdesign. The targeted population of the study was 548 respondents comprising of 499energy consumers and 49 microgrid personnel from rural communities in Kogi and NigerStates,Nigeria. Simple random sampling technique was used to 277 energy consumersfrom the two rural communities, and census sampling technique was used to select 49microgrid personnel from the communities. A structured questionnaire titled“Questionnaire on Solar Power Microgrids Effects on Rural Communities (QSPERRC)”was used for data collection. The instrument was validated by three experts and was pilottested in Kwara State using 15 Energy Consumers and Microgrid Personnel. CronbachAlpha formula was used with the overall reliability index of the instrument found to be0.87, which implied that instrument was reliable for use. Data collected was analysedusing mean, standard deviation and z-test statistics. The findings of the study revealed thatthe contributions of solar power microgrids on socio-economic development in ruralcommunities in Kogi and Niger States includes significant improvements in; healthcareservices, small-scale enterprises,educational development and social and communitydevelopment. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that governmentand policymakers should provide adequate subsidies, grants, and policy support to reducethe high initial capital costs associated with solar power microgrid projects in ruralcommunities in Kogi and Niger State. 2025-06-15T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31619 Title: Skill Needs of Carpenters and Joiners for the Construction of Smart Buildings Authors: Mohammed, Bala Maik; Kagara, Abdul Bello; Kareem, Wahab Bamidele; Beji, Binni Danjuma; Musa, Stephen; Alawode, Opeyemi Dolapo Abstract: Carpenters and joiners form a significant segment of the workforce in the building industry. They are often among the first to arrive at construction sites and the last to leave, as they are involved in various stages of construction, from setting out building layouts to finishing works. The construction sector is currently experiencing rapid transformation due to emerging technologies in tools, materials, and processes, particularly in the area of digitalisation. This development necessitates a reassessment of traditional skill requirements. In addition, the introduction of new technologies has led to the continuous evolution of safety standards and regulations. This study therefore examined the skill needs of carpenters and joiners for the construction of smart buildings in Niger State, Nigeria. The population of 362 construction professionals (128 registered architects, 94 engineers, and 140 carpenters and joiners) were targeted for the study. 188 respondents were selected and used for the study. Data were collected using the Carpentry and Joinery Skills Instrument for Smart Buildings (CJSISB), administered in collaboration with registered professionals through a Google Scholar-based application. The instrument recorded a reliability index of 0.85, established using test-retest and Cronbach’s alpha statistics. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while one-way ANOVA was employed to test two null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance using IBM SPSS version 26. Findings from the study on skills required for the use of structural insulated panels by carpenters and joiners in smart building construction revealed that nine skills were needed, with mean scores ranging from 3.69 to 3.93. The overall grand mean of 3.37 fell within the decision range of 2.50–3.49, indicating that all identified skills were considered necessary for the effective use of structural insulated panels in smart building construction. Based on these findings, it was recommended that government and relevant stakeholders in the construction industry should establish targeted training programmes aimed at enhancing knowledge and practical skills in the use of structural insulated panels and recycled materials for smart building construction among carpenters and joiners. Description: This is an experiment study that was carried out among registered architects, engineers and carpenters and joiners. 2026-04-15T00:00:00Z