Abstract:
The student industrial attachment has become an integral part of academic programmes that seek to improve
students’ career prospects and employability. This study evaluated the attachment programme from the perspective of
students and university lecturers. A sample of eighty-seven (87) participants comprising lecturers, students and parents
were interviewed using self-administered questionnaires, semi-structured and focus group interviews. Data were analysed
using descriptive analysis and content analysis. The majority of the respondents concurred that the student industrial
attachment programme helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice. There were perceived variations with respect
to the grading of the assessments, mismatch between equipment and technology available in the University and industry.
Further, to concerns regarding the administration of the programme, in particular, challenges in securing attachments and
student allowances, lack of resources to cover industrial supervisors’ transport and accommodation costs. The main
recommendations include the need for the University to establish a Unit to coordinate the programme and foster closer
liaison with industry, monitor quality assurance procedures, upgrade equipment and technology. In addition to regular
reviews of the student attachment programme in line with changing and challenging business environments.
