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Articles

CJLIS: Vol. 1 No. 1 (Maiden Edition), June, 2018

Addressing Contending Issues and Embracing Emerging Trends in Library and Information Science Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

  • Kingsley N. Igwe Ph.D., Salihu S. Musa & Patience Odenigbo
Submitted
June 28, 2018
Published
2016-06-19

Abstract

The emergence of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was largely attributed to the inability of many nations to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. This paper identifies unresolved contending issues in Library and Information Science (LIS) education and training in Nigeria, with case for embracing emerging trends, not only for sustainability of LIS schools, but also to contribute positively towards actualization of the SDGs. With specific references to polytechnic-based and university-based LIS schools, the contending issues range from nomenclature, curriculum, infrastructure and human resources. In polytechnic-based LIS schools, many courses need to be merged so as to create avenue for integration of contemporary courses; and possibly develop specializations such as information resources management, knowledge management, records and information management, and publishing and multimedia technologies at the Higher National Diploma (HND) level. For university-based LIS schools, the development of a new programme tagged BSc. Information Science and Media Studies by the National Universities Commission (NUC) with curriculum that reflects information management and multimedia technology, may or may not be a threat to LIS education; however, rebranding and repackaging LIS to Information and Knowledge Management in line with global best practices is a way forward. In addition, a case for Master of Knowledge Management (MKM) programme in universities was made in order to address emerging opportunities. The paper concludes that these contending issues need to be addressed, emerging trends embraced, and university-based LIS schools in Nigeria should work towards ensuring that future master degree holders (MLIS graduates) possess practical computing skills in areas of programming, web design, content development, and library management systems.