IMPROVING EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA EDUCATION SYSTEM FOR GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS: EVIDENCE FROM TERTIARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN RIVERS STATE

Abstract

The study was carried out in order to examine how improving educational management in Nigeria education system for global competitiveness using evidence from tertiary education institutions in Rivers State. The study had four objectives, four research questions and four hypotheses. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 3600 administrators. Data were collected from a representative sample of 360 respondents drawn from universities, polytechnics, colleges, and policymakers using a proportional stratified sampling technique. A 5-point rating scale was used for responses, and instrument validity was ensured through expert review, while reliability was confirmed via Cronbach Alpha. Mean, standard deviation, and the z-test were used for data analysis, with a significance level of 0.05 to test hypotheses. The result of the study showed that improving educational management in Nigeria education system can enhance global competitiveness using evidence from tertiary education institutions in Rivers State. The study recommended that the government and stakeholders should establish consistent funding mechanisms to support infrastructure development, faculty training, and research initiatives, ensuring long-term financial sustainability. Tertiary institutions should prioritize leadership development programs that enhance financial accountability, policy implementation, and international collaboration to improve global competitiveness. Universities should invest in digital learning tools, e-learning platforms, and AI-driven education to foster academic excellence, increase student engagement, and expand global research collaborations. Institutions should actively engage in accreditation processes and maintain high academic standards to enhance credibility, attract global partnerships, and boost institutional reputation.