A Nasarawa State University professor has raised concerns over the use of foreign academic curricula in Nigerian private schools, stating that it disadvantages children by alienating them from local culture and realities.
Prof. Benneth Uzoechi of the Science Education department sounded the alarm during the university’s 51st inaugural lecture in Keffi on Wednesday. Speaking on the theme "Creating Equitable Science Learning Environments: Integrating Nature and Nurture in Nigerian Classrooms," he argued that foreign-based curricula conflict with Nigeria’s National Policy on Education.
Key Concerns:
Cultural Disconnect: Foreign curricula use unfamiliar examples, illustrations, and attitudes that don’t reflect Nigerian society.
Identity Erosion: "Are we teaching children to become Americans or British rather than Nigerians?" Uzoechi questioned.
Policy Violation: Many private schools ignore nationally approved curricula, limiting equitable education and citizenship development.
Call for Regulation:
The professor urged the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), to enforce compliance with local curricula.
"We design curricula using Nigerian examples and contexts, but foreign-based teaching materials override these efforts. Children learn better with relatable local content," he emphasized.
Balancing Nature & Nurture in STEM:
Uzoechi advocated for science classrooms that blend students’ innate abilities (nature) with their environmental influences (nurture). "A conducive learning environment must cater to all—regardless of economic or cultural background," he added.
University Backs Reform:
NSUK Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saadatu Liman endorsed the push for equitable STEM education, citing gaps in resources and outdated teaching methods. "We must deliberately integrate inclusive approaches to improve learning outcomes," she stated.
The lecture highlights growing calls for education reforms to prioritize Nigeria’s cultural and developmental needs over imported systems.
