Continuity in black political protest : an examination of Edward Wilmot Blyden and Kwame Nkrumah's educational philosophy

Abstract EN

It is widely acknowledged that African education was subject to change since the inception of colonialrule in Africa.

This system, though presented the core of communal life in Africa, became a sort ofthe past.

A much Westernized system of education was introduced as many believed Africantraditional education to underdevelop Africans and enforce their backwardness.

In fact, colonial ruledid not invest in the development of this system, but recklessly, placed all the means for its destructionand erosion.

Within this time of great upheaval for Africa, Edward Wilmot Blyden and KwameNkrumah championed the cause of African education and stood behind all Africans to recognize itsvitality for their development and progress.

This article examines Edward Wilmot Blyden andKwame Nkrumah's educational philosophy, pointing out the similarities and the major themes sharedby the two leaders regards African education.

The examination indicates that Blyden's discernmenthad much impact on giving shape and substance to Kwame Nkrumah's educational philosophy andthus creating continuity in black political protest which extended over centuries of time.