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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Education and Economic Growth: An Analytical Study of the African Situation
Author:Elliot, J.
Year:1977
Periodical:South African Journal of African Affairs
Volume:7
Issue:1
Pages:13-19
Language:English
Geographic term:Africa
Subjects:school leavers
employment
Development and Technology
Economics and Trade
Education and Oral Traditions
Abstract:Set against disappointing economic growth rates in Africa, the unemployment primary school leaver problem and chronic shortages of skilled manpower, the paper considers the link between education and economic growth. The historical evidence is conflicting and theoretical approaches based mainly on United States data have only limited significance for Africa. The contribution of education to productivity is analysed in terms of the 'human capital theory' as opposed to the 'screening theory' and the importance of educational 'credentials' is emphasised where education is scarce. 'Education' has been given a misleading connotation of universality and the crucial factor of quality of education ignored in Africa, where schools are strongly examination oriented. Adopting a pragmatic approach the importance of literacy and numeracy for children and adults is fundamental to increased productivity but expenditure on education should not be at the expense of other vital social services and meausures conducive to rural and industrial transformation. Ref.
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