Functional Higher Education And Sustainable Manpower Development In Nigeria

Abstract

The potentials of functional education in enhancing sustainable manpower development in Nigeria cannot be over-emphasised. This paper sees functional education as the one that takes cognizance of individual and societal needs through the inculcation of relevant knowledge and skills to learners as instrument for personal and sustainable national development. It conceptualises manpower development as the process of improving and developing the skills and potentials of the individual who in turn develop the organisation or country where they operate. Major obstacles identified as stumbling block towards manpower development in Nigeria are inadequate funding, insufficient professional development, poor implementation of educational policies, and poor curricula sustainability, among others. Human capital theory which underscores the significance of perpetual learning and the continuous development of skills throughout an individual's professional journey was adopted as the theoretical framework. The paper delves into the roles that higher education plays in achieving sustainable manpower development by equipping individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required in various organisations towards national development. Higher education actively engages in policy formulation and advocacy efforts by providing evidence-based research and expertise to policy makers and stakeholders. It concludes that leveraging higher education as a tool for manpower development is thus crucial in preparing individuals to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world and contribute to sustainable national development. It is therefore pertinent that every possible effort should be geared towards providing functional education to Nigeria citizens to enhance sustainable manpower and national development.

Okemakinde Timothy. Functional Higher Education And Sustainable Manpower Development In Nigeria. Ibadan Journal of Educational Studies, 23(2), 120-129.