EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND SUSTAINABILITY OF ADULT EDUCATION CENTERS WITHIN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract Adult education plays a vital role in fostering lifelong learning and promoting communitydevelopment. However, the sustainability of adult education centres in Nigeria remains asignificant challenge, particularly due to weak management practices. This study investigatedthe influence of educational management strategies specifically planning strategies and staffmotivation on the sustainability of adult education centres within community developmentprojects in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State. A descriptive survey design wasemployed, targeting a population of 320 facilitators, coordinators, and community developmentofficers. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample of 175 respondents was selected through stratifiedrandom sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which achieved areliability coefficient of 0.87. Analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics for researchquestions and an independent t-test for hypothesis testing at a 0.05 significance level. Findingsrevealed that both planning strategies and staff motivation significantly influence thesustainability of adult education centres. The study established that well-structured planningensures resource utilisation and programme continuity, while staff motivation and capacitybuilding enhance facilitator commitment and reduce turnover. The results underscore the needfor robust planning frameworks, continuous professional development, and strong communityinvolvement to maintain sustainable adult education programmes. Based on these findings, thestudy recommends that educational managers prioritise strategic planning and staffdevelopment as core elements for sustaining adult education centres within communitydevelopment initiatives. Keywords: Educational management strategies, planning strategies, staff motivation,sustainability, adult education centres