Pages: (107-125 )
Abstract
Abstract
The book publishing industry is a cornerstone of societal advancement. Nigeria is reputed to have one of the largest and well-established African publishing industries. However, there is a dearth of specialized formal training in book publishing, especially in the nation’s higher education system. This brings forth serious concerns about professionalism in book publishing, especially given that the book industry is strategic to the economic development of countries. There can be very little progress made in the knowledge-driven field of book publishing without the involvement of competent professionals. This study examines the broad range of formal, undergraduate book publishing training available in Nigeria, with a specific focus on the Higher National Diploma (HND) book publishing programme at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. This programme is one of the few attempts at promoting formal training and professionalism in book publishing in Nigeria. By tracing the history of the HND Book Publishing programme, this paper evaluates the adequacy of its course contents through a content analysis of the curriculum of training and interviews with programme instructors. An attempt is also made to highlight the programme’s potential in contributing to human resource development in Nigeria’s book publishing industry. This study reveals that the HND book publishing programme offers a blend of courses that prepares students for a fulfilling practice in publishing and for post graduate training in allied professions. Recommendations made include; i) an update of course contents to reflect the digital transformations in contemporary publishing, as well as; ii) an upgrade of the HND programme to a degree programme to reflect the fast-changing dynamics in the broad media landscape.
Keywords: Publishing education; capacity building; human resource development,