The Nigerian Academy of Education (NAE) has criticized the Federal Government. The Academy attacked the decision to abolish the National Language Policy. It described the move as a “grave disservice” to Nigeria’s educational progress.
On November 25, the NAE submitted a paper to Education Minister Maruf Alausa. They strongly urged the government to reverse this decision. Specifically, they want the mother tongue reinstated for foundational education.
A “Burial” of National Pride
NAE leaders did not mince words. President Emeritus Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede and Secretary-General Prof. Chris Chukwurah signed the statement.
They warned against scrapping the policy without proper evaluation. According to them, this amounts to “permanent recolonization.” Furthermore, they called it the “burial of Nigeria’s future and pride.”
The Academy argued that evidence supports indigenous language education. Children taught in their native tongues perform better academically. This applies even to English proficiency.
Disputing Government Claims
Recently, the government designated English as the sole medium of instruction. Minister Alausa cited poor exam performance as the reason. He claimed that the language-of-origin curriculum caused higher failure rates.
However, the NAE rejected this rationale. They insisted that mother-tongue instruction ends at Primary Four. Therefore, it cannot be blamed for poor results in later exams.
The Academy emphasized that no data supports the government’s assertion. Instead of cancellation, they called for improved teacher training.
Education “Under Siege”
Beyond policy, the NAE raised alarms about safety. The Academy declared the education system “under siege.” This is due to rising terrorist attacks on schools.
Since the 2014 Chibok abduction, the sector has suffered greatly. The NAE revealed grim statistics:
- 92 school invasions.
- Over 2,500 abducted learners.
- 180+ children killed.
“A False Sense of Security”
The Academy acknowledged initiatives like the Safe Schools Declaration. However, they dismissed current measures as “grossly inadequate.”
They argued these efforts create a “false sense of security.” Insecurity in the North-East and Middle Belt has eroded public confidence. Consequently, schools lack basic emergency systems.
The NAE warned that these ripple effects damage the economy.
“Education is the lifeblood of any nation,” the statement concluded. The Academy demanded decisive action and full protection for Nigeria’s learners.
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