INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH

Abstract

This study investigated the role of cluster-based economic development in propelling sustainable growth, focusing on rural areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Economic clusters, characterized by interconnected businesses and institutions, foster innovation and competitiveness, driving regional economic diversification and job creation. To guide the study, two research objectives and hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A survey research design was adopted. The study population comprises of adult males and females. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 50 respondents from ten (10) local government areas in Akwa Ibom State giving a total of five hundred (500) respondents for the study. The main instrument used for data collection was the questionnaire designed by the researcher. The items in the questionnaire were drawn in reflection of the hypothesis generated and the variables under study. Before using the instrument, the items development was given to experts in research and statistics for face and content validation. The researcher used Crombach Alpha technique to determine the reliability of the instrument, using 30 people who did not form part of the main study. Data collected from the respondents were subjected to reliability test and it produced an average reliability coefficient of 0.92. The data collected from the instruments was analyzed using Pearson’s’ Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) statistics. The study's findings highlight the effectiveness of cluster-based approaches in harnessing local resources for rural development, emphasizing the importance of inclusive participation and environmental considerations. Recommendations include prioritizing equitable distribution of benefits and empowering marginalized groups to fully engage in economic activities. Integrating these strategies ensures long-term prosperity and resilience in rural communities.