Journal of Emerging Trends in Educational Research and Policy Studies: Home

Article Title: Managing Innovations in Educational System in Nigeria: A Focus on Creating and Sustenance of Culture of Innovation
by Comfort Olufunke Akomolafe

Abstract:
Innovation is a tool to enhance sustainable development in education, and it has been receiving the attention of educators, educationists and researchers across the world. In organizational context, innovation is viewed as intentionally bringing into existence and practice something new, so as to enhance performance and growth through improvement in efficiency and effectiveness. This paper examined the need of educational system for a school culture that is dynamic and forward looking, in order to create an environment for innovation. It discusses innovation as a leadership task, sustenance of innovation in schools, innovation as a tool to transform education, and challenges of innovation in schools. The sustenance of innovation includes: creating and sustenance of culture of innovation; holistic approach to innovation; effective goal definition; avoidance of innovation failures; and innovative lab. Innovations were faced with challenges of inadequate funding and facilities, lack of innovation culture in schools, inadequate leadership guidance and orientation, and poor attitude to research outcomes. It was concluded that school culture of innovation is to enhance and sustain; school quality, productivity and efficiency. Innovation requires development not only for individual creativity alone but creating a sustainable innovative environment. It was recommended that schools should create and maintain the culture of innovation, leaders should create innovation culture, and individual must become a master of innovation so as to constantly inventing or creating their experience.

Keywords: innovation, culture of innovation, leadership, transforming education, individual creativity

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