RE-INVENTING THE DYNAMICS OFAFRICAN EDUCATIONADMIST COLONIALISMAND WESTERN EDUCATION INAFRICA

  • Umezurike J. Ezugwu, Ph.D
  • Jozeph Z. Opuowei, Ph.D
Keywords: Colonialism, Decolonisation, Education, Curriculum, Culture

Abstract

As the Europeans stepped into the soil of the continent of Africa, they were unable to explain or cope with the African cultures, norms and vocational skills. Due to this fact, they erroneously concluded that Africa had neither culture nor education. Regrettably, this was buttressed by many Africans, who misconceived the term education, as a result of the strong influence or appurtenance to Western tradition and culture. However, before the arrival of the Europeans, Africans were contented with their modes of learning and cultural engagements. Hence, family educated and guided their infants through stories, folk-tales and moral instructions. More so, traditional education was demonstrated through age-grade and peer group activities aimed at inculcating into the young ones, the traditional practices, norms and values of the society. Owing to these conspicuous evidences, it is therefore, incorrect to claim that Africa had no culture and education, as doing so will deny the mentioned etiquettes and inherited values of learning and acculturation experienced among Africans. To revitalise this lost cultural heritage, this paper using complementary method, posits that 'soft decolonisation' and redirection of the Africa education curriculum, African belief systems and traditions, should be revitalised for self-reliance, national development and cultural linkages.

Published
2023-11-09
Section
Articles