IMPROVING THE SYNERGY BETWEEN INFORMAL AND FORMAL EDUCATION TO MEET THE CHALLENGES OF THE 21ST CENTURY NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper adopted the Functional Theory as the theoretical framework and examined how improving the synergistic relationship between informal and formal education could be employed with efficacy to tackle the multifaceted and hydra-headed challenges of the 21st century Nigeria, simply summarised and described as “the challenges of development”. The researchers strongly argued and concluded that this could be achieved by a visionary, competent and transformational political leadership; construction of a knowledge economy; development and effective application of productive skills of Nigerians, especially the dynamic and active youth population; and the promotion of entrepreneurship education and culture of entrepreneurship in the country.