PROBLEMS OF RESEARCH IN THE NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES: A CASE STUDY OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY

PROBLEMS OF RESEARCH IN THE NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES: A CASE STUDY OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY

Abstract:

This essay on research problems is presented in four chapters. Chapters I and II discuss research activities in general with emphasis on the Nigerian situation. It was observed that Nigeria lacks concrete policy on research activities. There is no one organization that co-ordinates all government-sponsored research activities in the country. Most of the research activities in the country are conducted in the universities and research institutes established by government. Unfortunately funding research in these organizations is greatly inadequate. The Nigerian private sector was found to play an insignificant role in funding and conducting research. Chapter III discusses in details research activities at the Ahmadu Bello University with emphasis on problems encountered by researchers. It was observed that although the University established a body to co-ordinate research activities, there was little evidence of such co-ordination. Several problems associated with research activities were encountered. These problems include lack of co-ordination and inadequate funding, equipment, technical staff support, library facilities, computer services and means of dissemination of research information. Chapter IV summaries the findings of the study and provides suggestions on how to solve some of the problems associated with research in the universities in particular and the nation in general. It was concluded that research activities in the country are poorly funded, conducted and co-ordinated. It is suggested that each University should establish a University Research Division to co-ordinate research activities in the University. The body is to report to a Nigerian University Research Board (NURB). It is also recommended that a Nigerian Research Institute Board (NRIB) be formed to co-ordinate research activities in the research institutes. The NURB, NRIB and any other government research organizations are to report to a national body on research to be called National Research Council of Nigeria in the office of the Vice President of Nigeria. It is hoped that, through this recommended organization, research will be widely publicised for the benefit of the country.

PROBLEMS OF RESEARCH IN THE NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES: A CASE STUDY OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY

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