EDUCATION IN AFRICA: ACHIEVEMENT, CHALLENGES AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY

Abstract

This paper provides a critical examination of African educational systems, exploring its nature, strengths, weaknesses, and impact on global development. Being the most populous country in Africa, most populous black nation in the world and one with the largest market in West Africa, Nigeria is used as representative case study for the paper. The paper discusses the challenges facing the Nigerian educational system, including inadequate funding, policy summersaults, security concerns, and tensions along tribal and religious lines. Despite these challenges, Nigerian students have excelled in various fields of study both in Nigeria and abroad, contributing significantly to research, innovation, and global movements for change. The paper examines the successes of Nigerian students in the diaspora, highlighting their contributions to science and technology, entrepreneurship, leadership, arts and culture, sports, social justice, academic excellence, and cultural diplomacy. The paper also explores the tensions in the Nigerian educational system, including religious and tribal undercurrents, which have led to conflicts and crises. The ethical dilemmas facing the Nigerian educational system are also examined, including issues related to corruption, academic fraud, and the exploitation of students. Finally, the paper recommends solutions to improve the Nigerian educational system and enhance its contribution to global development. The recommendations include increasing funding, prioritizing teacher training, improving curriculum development, addressing security concerns, and reducing policy summersaults. By addressing the challenges facing the Nigerian educational system and implementing the recommended solutions, Nigeria (Africa) can continue to make significant contributions to the global community and drive national development.