Students and Africa's Democratization Process: From Colonial to Post-Independence Eras

Abstract

Enough historical evidence abound which dispel the fast-held notion that suggests, pre-colonial African societies never practiced any form of democracy, until the advent of colonialism. Simplistic as the African democratic experiences might have been, these forms nonetheless, bore semblance to other known practices in the western world and did, indeed, conform to the basic principles of modern democracy. This research paper has briefly reviewed these pre-colonial practices; however, the focus is on Africa's post-colonial democratic experiences and in particular, the role of students in this whole process. In the given milieu, the main objective of this work is an evaluation of students' contributions in this entire democratic process---their achievement and also, the price they have/had to pay for. The study which adapted an analytical approach, obtained primary, secondary and tertiary data on the subject matter, having used Ghana as case study. Consequently, findings have revealed that, throughout both colonial and post-colonial eras, the activities and interventions (including peaceful demonstrations, non-violent advocacy and sometimes violent protests) of African students, have immensely contributed to the enhancement of democracy within the continent. The attendant benefits having aided the following: socio-politico-economic development of the continent; peaceful co-existence of people of varied political opinions; and the observance of fundamental human rights; inter alia.  That said, lapses still persist within the context of democratic governance among African states, which students' activism are constantly striving to address with a resulting resistance from the corridors of power. Indeed, it is also significant to mention that, one major recommendation put forth by the study is that: students' activism should approach issues non-violently while at the same time authorities should acknowledge and uphold the potent contributions of students in that regard. Finally, the implications of this study are multifaceted as they do not only complement scholarly literature but are also relevant in respect of policy-direction and the enhancement of good democratic governance among the community of states, as spearheaded by the United Nations.