Application of the Principles of Social Demand Approach (SDA) in the Implementation of Universal Basic Education (UBE) In Nigeria A Sociological Analysis

The Universal Basic Education (UBE) was launch in 1999 to replace the failed Universal Primary Education (UPE) of the 1970s. The focus of UBE is to take education to the doorsteps of all Nigerians. Inspired by the relative tag on Nigeria as a country where nothing work, the study was carried out with much reliance on secondary sources of data and observation pivoted by Robert Merton’s version of the functional theory. We assert that although the ideals of UBE are lofty, it could fail as the previous UPE programme. To stem the tide, we suggests the application of the principles of Social Demand Approach (SDA) which exposes the essential conditions that must be met before a high level of success of UBE can be guaranteed. We recommend accurate demographic data, proper funding, stiff penalty against destructive elements and assurance of quality among others. We conclude that educational problems are artificial and in man lies the solution.

Keywords: Basic education, social demand approach, functional, non functional, dysfunctional, funding