UTILIZING CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR EXPANDING ACCESS TO EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

This study was designed to examine the utilization of continuing education for expanding access to education in Nigeria. It employed a survey research design with a sample population of 262 respondents selected from continuing education centres in Benin metropolis through the simple random sampling procedure. Two research questions were raised and answered and one hypothesis tested in the course of investigation. A 20 items questionnaire was the instrument for the study. Data collected were analysed using statistical mean of decision criteria of 2.50 and chi-square for testing the hypothesis. The finding of the study revealed that continuing education is viable and can be effectively utilized for expanding access to education. It revealed that continuing education helps individuals to grow professionally with the latest technologies, knowledge and skills; promote knowledge and skill relevant to needs of participants; provide educational access to individual who desire it; provide educational success for drop out and starters to further their learning; enhance initiative, dynamism and proficiency of participants are major potentials of expanding access to education. In view of this, it was essentially recommended that efforts should be made to intensify the provision of continuing education in the country as it is the only viable alternative to formal education in expanding access to education.