Oluseyi F. Olaitan, Nick J. Hubbard and Colin G. Bamford
The purpose of this paper is to explore the barriers inhibiting horticulture product export from Nigeria, particularly to the UK, and identify those requiring resolution if global…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the barriers inhibiting horticulture product export from Nigeria, particularly to the UK, and identify those requiring resolution if global horticulture value chains (GHVCs) are to contribute to economic growth in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
A single-case (embedded) research design was adopted. In total, 26 participants from five stakeholder groups (namely, farmers, exporters, air freight forwarders, aviation operators and government institutions) were selected for investigation to examine the research problem.
Findings
The empirical investigation showed that: the existing institutional framework, infrastructure and logistics issues, market penetration issues, stakeholders’ incompetence, food safety and quality issues, high transaction costs, operational challenges of exporting, neglect of agriculture and the existing airline market structure are prominent barriers that require resolution if horticultural product exports are to increase.
Research limitations/implications
The study focuses on the analysis of five key stakeholder groups upstream in the supply chain. Further investigation should include stakeholders downstream (importers, wholesalers and retailers).
Originality/value
The specific case study of horticultural product export from Nigeria offers empirically rich insights into the barriers hindering the participation of Nigeria in GHVCs.
Details
Keywords
Timothy Oluwafemi Ayodele, Oluseyi Joshua Adegoke, Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu and Olaitan Olaoye
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the soft skill gap of graduate employees, as well as the factors influencing the skill gaps of real estate graduates in the employment of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the soft skill gap of graduate employees, as well as the factors influencing the skill gaps of real estate graduates in the employment of real estate firms in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
Primary data were employed for the study. Close-ended questionnaire served on real estate employers in the two major property markets of Nigeria: Lagos and Abuja. From a total of 343 questionnaires administered, 172 (59.7%) questionnaires were retrieved. While data from the graduate employees were obtained via a web-based survey sent out to a total of 558 graduates, 119 (21.33%) responses were received. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were employed in the data analysis.
Findings
The findings showed that employers had high expectations for soft skillsets relating to responsibility, administrative, listening and communication skills. These have respective mean scores of 6.38, 6.33, 6.31 and 6.31 on a seven point scale. However, the results revealed significant skill gaps with skills such as logical thinking, business negotiation, responsibility and marketing. Further, the analysis revealed that factors influencing the skill gap, in decreasing order of influence, are training/professional mentors/remuneration, personal preferences/industry characteristics and curriculum/faculties.
Practical implications
Real estate graduate soft skills are investigated to uncover areas of emphasis and skill gaps. These outcomes could serve as important feedbacks for stakeholders towards improving real estate teaching and curriculum. The findings could also assist real estate graduates to know employers areas of emphasis in relation to graduate employability skills.
Originality/value
Extant studies have reiterated and evaluated the soft skills gaps based on the perceptions of employers, faculties and institutions of higher learning. However, there is the need to investigate the perception of graduate employees, being the recipient and major stakeholders in the training process.