Document Type
Open Access Capstone
Publication Date
1990
Abstract
In this paper I will try to argue the need for reassessment of the national education policy and strategies to reflect the importance of the pastoral sector in the national development context. The basic premises of my argument are centered around the following assumptions:
a) The development potential of Somalia is largely dependent on the development of the pastoral sector;
b) Pastoralism is time-tested and the only viable response to the harsh ecology of many parts Somalia;
c) Pastoralists are rational, resourceful, skilled and highly adaptable to the unpredictable conditions, and do not resist change and innovations that they see as beneficial;
d) Education and development initiatives should build on the pastoral peoples' knowledge, skills creativity.
The paper consists of five sections: i) definition of nomadism and pastoralism in general; ii) description of Somali pastoralism in its geographical, historical, and cultural context of livestock production and the trade system as well as its traditional education; iii) the role of pastoralism in Somalia's development; vi) assessment of educational and development policies, strategies and services towards pastoralists; v) recommendations and conclusion.
Pages
41