Teachers and parents have criticized the Federal Government's sudden introduction of a new national curriculum, stating they were not consulted and schools are ill-prepared for implementation.
During a virtual meeting, stakeholders expressed concerns that the rushed rollout could compromise learning quality. Child Protection and Education Advocate, Taiwo Akinlami, described the process as exclusionary, sidelining critical voices.
Akinlami noted that most school operators were unaware of the review until its announcement, and the decision appeared more political than educational. He warned that the infrastructure gap poses a significant challenge, particularly for subjects requiring laboratories and facilities.
Parents questioned how the reform would address the plight of over 20 million out-of-school children. Curriculum theorist Rhoda Odigboh acknowledged the reform's potential but emphasized the need for adequate preparation.
Odigboh noted that the country's education system is not yet equipped for digital literacy, citing a lack of qualified teachers and digital literacy skills among educators. Dr. Salihu Yahaya urged professional bodies and private school operators to engage proactively with the government.
Convener of CPE, Mrs. Yinka Ogunde, expressed optimism about ongoing conversations, stressing the need for collaboration and holding the government accountable.