Abstract
This paper x-rays the two-decade gradual yet steady strides made by Nigeria in building the capacity of its workforce in space science and technology. Information concerning the technical training modules on earth observation satellites (EOS), communication satellites, space transport and propulsion systems, and space systems application software is provided. Details are also provided of the locations for these training, the number of personnel involved and the associated cost implication for some of the capacity building programs. This review concludes that despite the funding challenges, global legal bottlenecks and the security implications associated with undertaking and executing a national space program, a continual investment in space capacity building programs is necessary, crucial and essential. This is because the immediate and long-term national benefits of these capacity building programs are immense and the spin-offs have trans-generational impacts.
Highlights
Africa’s resolve to develop competence in space technology has been underscored by the seemingly increasing interest by many African countries to make space science and technology part of their overall development strategy
To support capacity-building in space science and technology in Africa, the United Nations through its Office of Outer Space Affairs (UN-OOSA) established two African Regional Centres for Space Science and Technology; one in Morocco to cater to French-speaking African countries and the second one in Nigeria to cater to English-speaking African countries
Post-graduate diploma and MSc courses are offered in Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (RS and GIS), Satellite Communications (SATCOM), Satellite Meteorology and International Journal of Sustainable Development Research 2019; 5(1): 18-23
Summary
Africa’s resolve to develop competence in space technology has been underscored by the seemingly increasing interest by many African countries to make space science and technology part of their overall development strategy. One cannot underestimate the sense of sovereignty and national pride associated with having a people who possess such nation-building capacities and capabilities; in addition to these is that such self-reliance brings about a reduction in capital flight which hitherto results from an over dependence on foreign or imported goods and personnel. To this end, the afore-listed African countries have set up some form of national mechanisms aimed at acquiring or building the needed capacity for space science and technology development. Suggestions are proffered to current challenges and a 20-year forecast of NASRDA is done
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