A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Ambassador Abayomi Mumuni has declared that inadequate infrastructure, inefficient curriculum frameworks, lack of trained educators, socioeconomic disparities, and insufficient access to learning resources are the major causes of abysmal performances of Students in various examinations in the country.
Mumuni made this declaration while reacting to the ongoing controversies that characterised the just concluded Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The APC chieftain in a statement made available to journalists through his Media Aide, Rasheed Abubakar, advised parents, educators and government officials to save the situation.
Mumuni in the statement, noted that significant decline in examination scores has raised critical questions about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s educational system.
He said that factors such as inadequate infrastructure, inefficient curriculum frameworks, lack of trained educators, socioeconomic disparities, and insufficient access to learning resources are the major causes of the problem.
“We stand at a pivotal moment in our educational landscape, as we confront the alarming revelation of our children’s poor performance in the recent Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. This situation has escalated to what can no longer be viewed as a mere issue; it has become a state of emergency within our education sector. The implications of these results are far-reaching, affecting not only individual futures but the overall development and competitiveness of our nation.
“The significant decline in exam scores has raised critical questions about the effectiveness of our educational system. Factors contributing to this crisis are multifaceted: inadequate infrastructure, inefficient curriculum frameworks, lack of trained educators, socioeconomic disparities, and insufficient access to learning resources. Each of these elements exacerbates the struggle of our students, leaving them ill-prepared for examinations that determine their educational trajectories.
“Furthermore, the pressures of societal expectations and the evolving job market place increased stress on our children. They are expected to excel in an increasingly competitive environment, yet our education system seems to be failing to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive.
“In addressing this crisis, we urge all stakeholders to come together in a concerted effort to implement immediate and long-term solutions that are vital for restoring faith in our education system. Here are key action points. It is imperative that we review and update the national curriculum to ensure it reflects current realities and future foci. We must emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical applications of knowledge.
“A dedicated focus on the professional development of teachers is essential. We call for enhanced training programs that equip educators with modern teaching methodologies and ongoing support to foster a more engaging and effective learning environment.
“The government must prioritize investment in educational infrastructure. Access to safe, well-equipped classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and technology is a fundamental right that our children deserve.
“Enhanced Learning Resources. We need to facilitate better access to learning materials, including textbooks, online resources, and tutoring programs. This includes providing free or subsidized study materials to underprivileged students.
“Parents must take an active role in their children’s education. Schools should foster stronger partnerships with families and communities to create supportive educational ecosystems, encouraging mentorship programs and community tutoring initiatives.
“Implement frequent assessments that provide students with constructive feedback on their progress. This will help identify gaps in knowledge early, allowing for timely intervention. Mental Health and Well-Being Support. Resources to support the mental health of students must be prioritized. Counselors should be available in schools to help students cope with academic pressures and personal challenges.
“We urge the government to commit to transparency and accountability in educational governance. Policymakers must actively engage with stakeholders to monitor progress and make data-driven decisions that are responsive to the needs of students and educators. In conclusion, the future of our children hangs in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to address these urgent issues with diligence and urgency. By taking decisive and well-coordinated steps”.
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