Standard education refers to a level of education that meets certain benchmarks or criteria, such as a curriculum that is up-to-date, adequate resources and facilities, qualified teachers, and a learning environment that supports student growth and development.
A standard education prepares students for further education, work, and citizenship by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for success in their lives.
Sadly, the standard of Education has taken a downward tune. There are several factors that can be attributed to the falling standard of education in Nigeria. Some of these factors include:
- Lack of adequate funding: One of the major factors responsible for the falling standard of education in Nigeria is the inadequate funding of the education sector. The budget allocation to education in Nigeria has been consistently low, which has resulted in a lack of infrastructure, resources, and materials needed for quality education.
- Poor teacher quality: Another factor is the poor quality of teachers in Nigeria. Many teachers are not adequately trained or qualified to teach, and there is a high turnover rate in the teaching profession. This has resulted in a lack of quality instruction and guidance for students.
- Overcrowded classrooms: Many schools in Nigeria have overcrowded classrooms, which makes it difficult for teachers to provide individual attention to students. This can result in a lack of understanding and poor performance by students.
- Poor infrastructure: Many schools in Nigeria lack basic infrastructure such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and other facilities that are essential for quality education. This can make it difficult for students to learn and for teachers to provide effective instruction.
- Insufficient curriculum: The curriculum used in Nigerian schools is often outdated and not relevant to the needs of students in the 21st century. This can result in a lack of interest in education by students, which can lead to poor performance.
- Societal factors: Societal factors such as poverty, child labor, and early marriage can also contribute to the falling standard of education in Nigeria. These factors can make it difficult for students to attend school regularly and can lead to a lack of interest in education.
Sustaining standard education requires a multifaceted approach that involves various stakeholders, some of which are:
- Adequate funding: Providing adequate funding to the education sector is essential for sustaining standard education. This involves allocating a significant portion of the budget to education, ensuring that schools have the resources and materials they need to provide quality education.
- Qualified teachers: Hiring and retaining qualified teachers is crucial for sustaining standard education. This involves providing adequate training and professional development opportunities, fair compensation, and supportive working conditions.
- Relevant and up-to-date curriculum: Developing and implementing a relevant and up-to-date curriculum is necessary for sustaining standard education. This involves regularly reviewing and updating the curriculum to meet the changing needs of students and society.
- Adequate facilities and resources: Providing adequate facilities and resources, such as libraries, laboratories, and technology, is crucial for sustaining standard education. This involves ensuring that schools have the infrastructure and equipment needed to provide quality education.
- Parental involvement: Encouraging parental involvement in their children’s education is essential for sustaining standard education. This involves creating opportunities for parents to participate in their children’s education and supporting them in their role as primary caregivers and educators.
- Collaboration among stakeholders: Collaboration among stakeholders, including government, educational institutions, teachers, parents, and communities, is necessary for sustaining standard education. This involves working together to identify and address challenges, develop solutions, and implement policies and programs that support quality education for all.
In summary, addressing these factors will require a concerted effort by the government, educational institutions, teachers, and the larger society to improve the quality of education in Nigeria. All hands must be on deck to make this a reality.