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The Phelps-Stokes Commission was established in 1919 to study education in Africa. The commission's report, published in 1922, made a number of recommendations, including:
- African education should be based on African culture and values.
- Education should be provided in the vernacular languages of Africa.
- Teachers should be trained in Africa.
- Schools should be established in rural areas as well as in urban areas.
- Education should be provided for girls as well as for boys.
- Higher education should be provided for Africans.
Influence on Development Education in Africa
The recommendations of the Phelps-Stokes Commission had a profound influence on development education in Africa. Many of the recommendations were adopted by colonial governments and missionary societies, and they continue to influence education policy in Africa today.
The emphasis on African culture and values in education helped to foster a sense of national identity among Africans. The use of vernacular languages in education made it possible for more Africans to access education. The training of teachers in Africa helped to improve the quality of education. The establishment of schools in rural areas made it possible for more African children to attend school. The provision of education for girls helped to improve the status of women in Africa. The provision of higher education for Africans helped to create a new African elite.
The Phelps-Stokes Commission also helped to bring international attention to the issue of education in Africa. The commission's report led to increased funding for education in Africa from both governments and private organizations. The commission's work also helped to inspire other studies of education in Africa, such as the 1925 Jesse Jones Commission and the 1961 Ashby Commission.
The Phelps-Stokes Commission played a pivotal role in the development of education in Africa. Its recommendations helped to shape the course of education in Africa for decades to come.