EXPLORING FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR LOW LEVEL OF PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION BY BUILDING GRADUATES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

A large number of universities and polytechnics are currently involved in education and training in the building programme. This results to production of large number of graduates who potentially can become professional builders after obtaining relevant experience and meeting the registration requirements. The number of licensed professional builders in Nigeria at the time of this study is 2,163. This is quite low when compared to the number of building graduates produced by various accredited institutions. This signify that a large proportion of building graduates do not pursue to become registered builders. The aim of this study was to explore the factors responsible for low level of professional registration by building graduates. A qualitative research approach was adopted because of the exploratory nature of the study. Data was collected through semi-structured interview. A total of sixteen building graduates with at least three years post-graduation experience were interviewed. The data collected was transcribed into text and analysed using thematic content analysis. Results indicate that there is a negative perception about the ‘worth’ of professional registration among building graduates. ‘Financial factor’ is also a major barrier to professional registration. Perceived ‘poor management and leadership style’ of the building professional association, ‘poor government policy’ and ‘non-implementation of national building code are among the other factors that impede professional registration. The study concludes that perceived lack of tangible benefit and excessive financial commitment associated with the registration process are the main factors impeding professional registration among building graduates.