This is a very sensitive subject and one that will always be open to debate and conjecture. Due to the infrastructure in Africa there are those who feel that teh best education is abroad (i.e. the UK, US,Russia and even in Scandinavian countries!)

The responsibilty first and foremost lies with teh various governments, who year-in, year-out fail to allocated the right resources and budgetary requirements. A vast majority of children in Africa are not fortunate to get even state education due a range of reasons including socio-economic circumstances, location, or even ignorance. I once heard of a man who retorted back, when asked why his son was not attending school. His answer was that 'why should he?' 'Who will tend to the farm, and harvest the crops when they are ready?' Ignorance they say is bliss.

I had an uncle who never had any formal education (except primary school), but learnt his ways from the "streets" and became a very successful Car Sales man. he has endeavoured to ensure ALL his children get at least University education.

There is no quick fix unfortunately, and while Africans are being left to their own devices then we will continue to suffer. One option will be for Africans in diaspora to set up think-tanks which will work with those involved in education and devices meaningful (and cost-effective) ways to improve the standard of education across the continent.

by Joe Dede on 12th Oct, 2009 at 06:22AM