The challenge facing endogenous knowledge, education, and Research in Africa

Chapter Authors: AT Sanni

Abstract

Knowledge can be defined as information and skills acquired through experience or education, the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject. Indigenous knowledge is resiliently local and thus poses a distinct contrast to the international, more impersonal system of knowledge prevalent in Africa. Education and research are the bedrock of development in the global world. Africa’s academic institutions face obstacles in providing the education, research and service needed if the continent is to advance. African universities currently function in very difficult circumstances, both in terms of the social, economic and political problems facing the continent and in the context of globalisation, and the road to future success will not be an easy one. Based on Africa-wide research, the author examines the challenges facing endogenous knowledge, education and research in Africa. These issues are at the heart of Africa’s future academic development. Therefore, the author calls for sensitivity by governmental policy-makers across the board and the stakeholders for social re-engineering towards endogenous knowledge, education and research, for the betterment of humankind.

 

Keywords: Challenges, Endogenous, Knowledge, Education, Research, Africa.