Integration of ICTs in Library and Information Science Education in sub-Saharan Africa.

The education and training of LIS professionals has to be such that it empowers them to unleash their potential as they endeavour to offer relevant and efficient services within the current levels of technological sophistication. Sub-Saharan LIS schools have embarked on this task by incorporating ICT modules in their curricular. Curriculum development has shown considerable strides in infusing ICT competencies as most LIS schools have developed relevant ICT modules and/or merged relevant ICT knowledge in traditional modules. However, most LIS schools teach these modules theoretically because they have inadequate quantities and quality of computers and poor Internet access. The problems are to be found in the overall ICT policy and infrastructures both at national and institutional levels as well as the lack of sustained funding, appropriate equipment, expertise and management in sub-Saharan HEIs and hence LIS schools. However, the significance or magnitude of these issues and challenges vary between countries and institutions due to diverse socio-political and economic environments. While noting some of the successes, the paper recommends that that LIS schools in Africa must continually strive to offer competitive ICT-laden education and training to their students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]