A conceptual framework for the use of scientific and technical information in national development in Nigeria

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Nkereuwem, E.E.

Affiliations: University of Calabar Library, Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract: While economic developments have become increasingly information-intensive, the use of scientific information has nonetheless not been fully regarded as a resource in achieving this objective in most developing countries. This paper examines the role of scientific and technical information (STI) in national development in Nigeria. Since the major impediments to utilization of scientific information in national development appear to be due to infrastructural constraints, the paper establishes a framework which could enhance the use of STI for development purposes. It has been observed that for a successful utilization of scientific information, government agencies and information stakeholders have to react positively to create an awareness among scientific information users. The framework recommends that the government should formulate a scientific information policy, and support scientific research for the creation of scientific knowledge by funding indigenous scientific projects. It draws attention to efforts of international organisations such as UNESCO in making possible the transfer of STI from the developed to the developing nations.

DOI: 10.3233/ISU-1985-5605

Journal: Information Services & Use, vol. 5, no. 6, pp. 323-330, 1985