Implementation of Educational Reforms and Human Capital Development in Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the extent to which the implementation of educational reforms could influence human capital development in Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. The design used was the descriptive survey. The sample for the study consisted of 376 University academic staff, using the simple random sampling technique. The instrument used for the study was the questionnaire. The research questions were personally administered by the researchers. To guide the study, one question was posed and answered and one hypothesis formulated and accepted at 0.05 level of significance. The statistical tools used to analyze the data were simple percentage, mean and t-test respectively. It was found that poor commitment to implementation; lack of public involvement and support; and lack of stability, continually, work tools and understanding of policies among others dominated the factors inhibiting the effective implantation of educational reforms and human capital development policies in Nigeria. The study suggests the need to review reforms with recourse to existing legislations, provision of adequate funding and wide consultations with experts and stakeholders to arrive at consensus on best possible ways of implementing reforms among others.

Key Words: Educational Reforms, Human Capital Development, Universal Basic Education, Universal Primary Education, Sustainable Staff Development, National Policy on Education.