INFLUENCE OF NON-AVAILABILITY OF POWER SUPPLY AND INEFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT OF BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of non-availability of power supply and ineffective communication infrastructure on the academic achievement of business education students in public tertiary institutions in Anambra State. Two research questions guided the study, and two hypotheses were tested. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with a population of 224 business education students from four public tertiary institutions offering business education programs. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed by the researcher, with reliability coefficients of 0.784 and 0.78 respectively, as determined by Cronbach's alpha. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and t-test to answer the research questions and test the hypotheses. The findings showed that the non-availability of power supply significantly influenced students’ academic performance. Similarly, ineffective communication infrastructure affected students' academic achievements. Gender did not influence respondents’ opinions, but the location of institutions had an effect. The study recommended that the federal government legislate to deregulate the national electricity grid to improve power supply. Additionally, federal and state governments should partner with telecommunication companies to provide reliable communication and data networks within tertiary institutions. These measures would enhance teaching and learning, ensuring an improved academic environment for students.