Educational Policy and Technological Development in Africa: An X-Ray of Problems and Solutions in the Nigerian Perspective

Abstract

Technological development is a basic artery through which nations strive to attain true independence. However, the level of technological development is dependent on the system, policy and philosophy of education that is dominant or prevalent in such a country. Any nation that lacks a sound system or policy of education cannot make a solid claim to development socially, politically, scientifically or technologically. A sound educational policy that is laid on a solid philosophical foundation is therefore, a necessary adjunct for technological growth. It is therefore the position of this paper that, many African countries like Nigeria , have invested enormously their national Wealth, with a view to achieving technological development but without success. The reason for this abysmal failure is traceable to lack of basic foundation for technological development. This basic foundation is sound Educational Policy and Philosophy. In this paper therefore, our effort is to identify and investigate the problems of Nigerian educational policy as they affect technological development in Nigeria. In doing this, we will analyze the various policies of education in Nigeria. This will be done with the aim to discovering factors in the policies that hinder or inhibit technological development.