society
From Classroom to Crisis: How Nigeria’s Educational Policies Contributed to Economic Decline – By Gbolahan Adetayo
From Classroom to Crisis: How Nigeria’s Educational Policies Contributed to Economic Decline – By Gbolahan Adetayo
Amid the ongoing debates about Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, one critical issue often overlooked is the educational foundation that has shaped the country’s workforce and economy. Many have pointed fingers at various aspects of governance and policy for the nation’s woes, but a closer examination reveals that the root of Nigeria’s problems may lie in a fundamental misstep in its education system: the compulsory emphasis on English language and mathematics at the expense of agriculture, the backbone of Nigeria’s economy before the discovery of crude oil.
From primary to secondary education, Nigeria’s curriculum has prioritized English and mathematics as the core subjects for all students. While these subjects are undoubtedly important, the government’s decision to make them compulsory for students sitting for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has inadvertently sidelined agriculture—a subject that could have better equipped the nation to maintain and strengthen its agricultural heritage.
Before the advent of oil, agriculture was the lifeblood of Nigeria’s economy, providing food, employment, and export revenue. The country was renowned for its agricultural productivity, with regions specializing in different crops that sustained both local and international markets. However, as Nigeria began to shift its focus towards the oil industry, agriculture was gradually neglected, a trend that has been mirrored in the education system.
By making English and mathematics compulsory subjects for students to pass before graduating from secondary school, the government has inadvertently sent a message that these are the only gateways to success. This policy has led to a decline in interest and enrollment in agricultural studies, as students are often more focused on mastering subjects that they believe will lead to white-collar jobs.
This neglect of agricultural education has had long-term repercussions. Nigeria, once a leader in global agricultural production, now struggles with food insecurity and relies heavily on imports to feed its growing population. The youth, who should be the future farmers and innovators in agriculture, are largely uninterested in pursuing careers in this field due to a lack of emphasis and encouragement from the educational system.
Moreover, the compulsory focus on English and mathematics has also exacerbated issues of unemployment and underemployment. As more students graduate with qualifications in subjects that do not align with the country’s primary economic needs, there is a growing mismatch between the skills available in the workforce and the jobs that are critical to national development.
To address these challenges, there needs to be a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s education policy. Agriculture should be given the same level of importance as English and mathematics, if not more, especially in regions where farming is still a viable and necessary livelihood. Schools should integrate agricultural education into their core curriculum, encouraging students to pursue it as a subject that not only holds the key to personal success but also national sustainability.
In addition to revising the curriculum, the government should invest in agricultural schools, provide scholarships for students interested in agriculture, and promote the benefits of a career in this vital industry. By doing so, Nigeria can begin to rebuild its agricultural sector and ensure that future generations are equipped with the skills needed to revive and sustain it.
The current emphasis on English and mathematics as the cornerstones of education, while important, has inadvertently led to the neglect of agriculture—Nigeria’s original economic mainstay. It is time for the government to rethink this approach and realign the education system with the country’s most pressing needs. Only by doing so can Nigeria hope to overcome its current challenges and build a more sustainable and prosperous future.
After nearly two decades of building a career in journalism, Yoruba movie acting, production, and content creation, Gbolahan Adetayo made a bold decision to challenge the conventional path. Recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in Nigeria’s survival, he ventured into the agricultural sector, where he is now thriving.
Adetayo’s journey reflects a growing awareness that the country’s focus on white-collar jobs, spurred by an educational system that prioritizes subjects like English and mathematics over agriculture, may have contributed to Nigeria’s current challenges. By embracing agriculture, Adetayo is not only securing a stable future for himself but also highlighting the need for a reevaluation of Nigeria’s educational priorities. His success serves as a testament to the potential prosperity that lies in returning to the nation’s agricultural roots, a sector that sustained Nigeria long before the discovery of crude oil.
This shift in focus is a reminder that the real solution to Nigeria’s problems may lie in refocusing on practical, life-sustaining skills—skills that were once the backbone of the country’s economy.
*Primate Ayodele To Feature On King’s FM Liberia Today
Popular Nigerian prophet, Primate Elijah Ayodele will feature on King’s FM, Liberia today Monday, 16th of September, 2024 by 8pm (9pm Nigerian time).
The internationally-recognized prophet will be hosted for an insightful interview session that would centre on Liberia as a nation, revelations for the country and the prophet’s ministry.
According to Kings FM, Primate Ayodele was chosen to feature on arguably Liberia’s biggest radio station due to the uniqueness of his national and international prophecies.
The station also revealed that Primate Ayodele would be discussing ECOWAS and African Union among other issues he would be touching during the interview.
‘’The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has recently released fresh prophecies concerning several African nations, including Liberia, Tunisia, Sudan, and South Africa. ‘’
‘’He will also discuss the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union as a guest on FACE THE ISSUES tonight. Primate Elijah Ayodele is well-known in Liberia for his prophecy that inevitable calamities would plague the country if JNB were to win. Tune in to watch our guest tonight at 8:15 PM. ” We are getting there”’’
Asides Liberia and the African continent, Primate Ayodele’s prophecies have gained global attention and this has made him become one of the most sought after prophets in the world.
From Disaster to Divine Intervention: Dr. Paul Enenche’s Hope-Filled Journey to Maiduguri
Written by Miracle
Sahar Weekly Reports That Earlier today, Dr. Paul Enenche, Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, embarked on a goodwill mission to Maiduguri following the devastating floods that ravaged the region over the past six days. His visit was more than just delivering essential supplies—it was about bringing compassion, solidarity, and the Word of Life to a community in need, offering prayers for divine restoration and help from above to prevent future calamities.
Upon landing in Maiduguri, Dr. Enenche and his team were warmly received by the Deputy Governor of Borno State, His Excellency, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur. The heartfelt welcome set the tone for a day dedicated to supporting the people of Maiduguri through both spiritual and material assistance, highlighting the unity between spiritual and governmental efforts in the face of adversity.
The first significant stop of the day was at the Government House, where Dr. Enenche met with the Executive Governor of Borno State, His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, accompanied by Deputy Governor Kadafur and the Governor’s Special Advisor on Protocol. During the meeting, Dr. Enenche shared his deep concerns for those affected by the flood and extended prayers for the leadership of Borno State as well as the flood victims. His message centered on hope, divine help, and a swift recovery, underscoring that the state is not facing these challenges alone.
Following this, Dr. Enenche visited the Dunamis Church in Maiduguri, where he delivered a message of resilience to the congregation, urging them to stand firm in their faith despite the trials they faced. His presence served as a spiritual lifeline, offering strength to the church members during this difficult time.
The day’s final visit was to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, where Dr. Enenche personally connected with those who had been displaced from their homes by the floods. His words of comfort and encouragement resonated deeply with the flood victims, providing both material support and spiritual reinforcement. This visit symbolized his genuine concern for the well-being of those most affected by the disaster, offering a reminder of the power of faith, compassion, and solidarity.
In conclusion, Dr. Paul Enenche’s visit was not only a gesture of goodwill but a beacon of hope for the people of Maiduguri. His prayers for restoration and protection from future disasters left a lasting impact on the hearts of those he met, reminding them that help is never far away, and that in times of great distress, divine assistance will always be there.
*Nollywood’s Future Shaped at TGDCPE2024: Pioneering Growth Through Innovation and Diversity
Ibadan, Oyo State, is set to host a groundbreaking event as the TAMPAN Guild of Directors (TGDCPE2024) prepares to unleash its annual Continuous Professional Exercise. With the theme “Enhancing Market Reach and Technical Proficiency in Nollywood: Tackling Challenges, Leveraging Language Films,” this year’s gathering will serve as a crucial platform for discussing the trajectory of Nigerian cinema. The event will unite industry trailblazers, including ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force, Dr. John O. Asein of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, and Tayo Adetunji of Africa Magic Yoruba, alongside Prof. Rasaki Ojo Bakare and other notable figures, to explore strategies for elevating Nollywood’s production quality and expanding its international presence.
The roster of esteemed speakers, including Shaibu Husseini, Yomi Fash-Lanso, and Anita Edward, is set to ignite pivotal conversations on film diversity and market expansion. These dialogues are expected to address the unique challenges facing Nollywood while harnessing the potential of language films to broaden its appeal and influence on a global scale. As Nollywood continues to gain international acclaim, the insights shared at TGDCPE2024 are anticipated to play a key role in shaping the industry’s future and solidifying its position on the world stage.
Under the esteemed patronage of Otunba Bolaji Amusan JP, the Global President of TAMPAN, and chaired by Amb Titi Jeje, the event promises to be a landmark occasion for Nollywood professionals. With an emphasis on innovation and collaboration, TGDCPE2024 aims to forge new pathways for Nigerian cinema, reinforcing its role as a dynamic and influential force in the global entertainment landscape. The event will take place on September 19th and 20th, 2024.
-
society6 months agoEDITORIAL: Generational dissonance or Prejudice? Seyi Tinubu and The Ignorance of Abati by Politics Nigeria
-
celebrity radar - gossips6 months agoMy relationship with Mr Ibu -Amb Halima Abubakar
-
society7 months agoNAUB: MR PRESIDENT, WHO ARE THOSE PLANNING TO KILL THE ONLY FEDERAL UNIVERSITY THAT DOES NOT GO ON STRIKE? By Femi Oyewale
-
news6 months agoPROFILE OF VICTORIA AKAI