Why Print Tech Belongs in Universities

The Importance of Integrating Printing Technology into Nigerian Universities

Printing technology plays a crucial role in the development of communication, education, and the economy. However, Nigeria’s printing industry faces significant challenges due to the lack of dedicated university-level programmes in this field. This absence has led to a skills gap that hinders innovation, limits research capabilities, and restricts the growth of the media sector. To address these issues, it is essential to institutionalise printing technology as a formal course of study in both federal and state universities.

A Historical Perspective on Printing in Nigeria

The history of printing in Nigeria dates back to the 19th century, when Christian missionaries introduced the first printing presses. Reverend Hope Masterton Waddell established the first press in Calabar in 1846, producing religious and educational texts. Later, Rev. Henry Townsend set up a press in Abeokuta, which published Iwe Irohin, West Africa’s first vernacular newspaper, in 1859. This marked the beginning of journalism in Nigeria and highlighted the critical role of printing in shaping mass communication and public discourse.

By the 20th century, more printing presses emerged, such as the Kano Native Authority Press in 1918, which supported colonial administration and local governance. Despite this rich history, printing education in Nigeria has largely remained confined to polytechnics and technical colleges, where diploma and higher national diploma (HND) programmes are offered. While these institutions have produced skilled professionals, they do not provide the depth of research or media integration found in university-level courses.

The Role of Printing in Communication and Economy

Printing technology encompasses various processes, tools, and techniques used to reproduce text, images, and designs on different substrates. These include offset lithography, digital printing, screen printing, and additive manufacturing. Globally, printing has been central to knowledge dissemination, media development, and cultural continuity. Since Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of movable type in the 15th century, printing has served as the foundation for mass communication systems, enabling the wide distribution of information and the democratisation of knowledge.

In Nigeria, printing remains vital to journalism, political communication, and cultural preservation. It also plays a key role in education, with textbooks, journals, and instructional materials being indispensable for learning. Economically, the printing industry generates employment, supports publishing and advertising, and contributes to the country’s gross domestic product. With the advent of digital and 3D printing, new opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation have emerged, further underscoring the need for skilled professionals and advanced research.

Current Challenges and the Need for Reform

Despite its significance, Nigerian universities currently lack degree programmes in printing technology, restricting advanced research and innovation. Training is limited to polytechnics, creating career barriers for HND graduates and perpetuating skills gaps. The challenges faced by the industry include inadequate infrastructure, limited expertise, weak academia-industry collaboration, and insufficient policy support.

To address these issues, reforms are necessary. The National Universities Commission (NUC) should recognise printing technology as a formal discipline, while interdisciplinary curricula should be developed to integrate traditional, digital, and additive printing methods. Public-private partnerships must also be established to bridge infrastructure gaps and provide training, equipment, and research support.

The Role of Regulatory Bodies and Government

The Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON) plays a key role in regulating standards, licensing practitioners, and organising training. CIPPON has consistently advocated for the inclusion of printing technology at the university level. Meanwhile, the government, through the NUC, is responsible for recognising the discipline, funding infrastructure, and fostering collaborations to modernise printing education.

Policy reforms, such as the adoption of printing technology as a university discipline under the NUC, are essential. Additionally, the development of interdisciplinary curricula, partnerships with industry, and the establishment of innovation hubs in universities are necessary steps. Inclusivity across disciplines and genders should also be encouraged to expand access to opportunities in the field.

Conclusion

Printing technology has historically shaped Nigeria’s communication, education, and economic systems. However, the absence of university-level programmes limits innovation and competitiveness. Integrating printing technology into Nigerian universities is essential for advancing mass communication, strengthening education, and driving national development. Collaboration between CIPPON, the NUC, and the Federal Ministry of Education is crucial for realising these reforms and ensuring that Nigeria fully harnesses the potential of printing as both a traditional and a modern communication technology.