EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUSINESS EDUCATORS IN A DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The global labour market has been reshaped by rapid technological revolution, creating new roles, modifying existing ones, and rendering some positions obsolete. Graduates of our tertiary institutions face unique employment challenges and opportunities in this digital age. This study examines the employment opportunities available to business educators in a digital environment and explores the areas where their knowledge and skills are most applicable. The research was guided by two questions: (1) What employment opportunities are available for business educators in the digital age? and (2) In which digital roles can Business Education graduates be effectively employed? A survey research design was employed, targeting 172 graduates currently employed as business administrative officers at Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, who hold qualifications in Business Education and Office Technology and Management (OTM). Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire and analysed using mean (𝑋̄) and standard deviation (SD) to answer the research questions, with a cut-off mean score of 3.0 indicating acceptability. The findings reveal that business educators and OTM graduates can secure employment in diverse roles, including business centre operations, call centre management, data analysis, etc. It also identifies key areas where graduates’ digital competencies are most relevant. The study concludes that Business Education and OTM graduates are highly adaptable to digital workplaces, with skills that ensure lifelong employability. Recommendations include aligning curriculum offerings with digital labour market requirements, continuous exposure to emerging digital technologies, and training programmes designed to enhance graduates’ practical skills in dynamic technological environments.