The Decline of the Nigerian Educational System Its Impact on the Younger Generation

Abstract

In the 1960s through to the 1980s, the Nigerian educational system as a whole was a role model for a number of other African countries, and its institutions of higher learning attracted many gifted scholars from all over the continent and beyond. It is on this strong foundation that contemporary Nigerian literature, for example, was also built. Significantly, this literature grew out of the group of vibrant Nigerian and African scholars including Chinua Achebe, Christopher Okigbo, Wole Soyinka, and J.P. Clark, as well as the unforgettable German scholar, Ulli Beier. They brought Nigerian literature to heights which to date remains unsurpassed. However, those proponents of Nigerian literature who, years ago, prognosticated a rapid growth of Nigerian literature would be disappointed to find out that its progress has been slower than anticipated. This can be attributed to the drastic decline in Nigerian educational standards. It is in this vein that this essay seeks to explore the impediments in the continued growth of the Nigerian educational system in relation to literary studies. The focus is on the present younger generation and the role good education plays in their lives. The primary and the secondary school systems are analysed; the latter is exemplified by poor performance in the Joint Matriculation Examinations and the low number of highly qualified teachers. Also, the role of the universities and other institutions of higher learning are analysed and future prospects discussed. This is linked to those Nigerian scholars whose dedication to their professions is reflected in their efforts to revitalize the Nigerian educational system and to keep it from breaking down completely.