NATIONAL
TEACHERS’ INSTITUTE, KADUNA
COURSE
TITLE: PHILOSOPHY OF
EDUCATION
COURSE
CODE: (PDE 707)
PRESENTED
By
SALAU
RAHEEM
REGISTRATION
NO: NTI/PGDE/2025/0300
PHONE:
NUMBER: 07039762488
LEVEL: 1,
FIRST SEMESTER
COURSE OF
STUDY: POST GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN EDUCATION
18TH JUNE,
2025
The question Assess the
development of Western education in Nigeria, viewing its philosophy and the educational
implications to its citizens” means:
1.
Trace the history of how Western
education came to Nigeria and how it developed.
2.
Explain the philosophy or thinking
behind Western education e.g., its focus on literacy, religion, morals, and
structured learning.
3.
Discuss the effects (educational
implications) that Western education has had on Nigerians both positive and
negative.
INTRODUCTION
Western education in
Nigeria refers to the formal, classroom-based learning system introduced by
European Christian missionaries in the 19th century. Before this, education in
Nigeria was mainly informal, traditional, and based on culture and
apprenticeships.
DEVELOPMENT
OF WESTERN EDUCATION IN NIGERIA
Western
education began in Nigeria through Christian missionaries in the 1800s,
expanded by colonial government efforts, and later became a national system
after independence.
Early
Introduction (1842): Western education started in Badagry
(Lagos) by Christian missionaries, especially the Church Missionary Society
(CMS).
Missionary Control: The
early curriculum focused on reading, writing, arithmetic, and Bible study.
Government
Involvement: By 1887, the colonial government began
to participate, especially through the Education Ordinance of 1887.
Expansion: Schools
spread to other parts of Nigeria, especially in the South.
Post-Independence
Era (after 1960): Nigeria began to take full control of
the education system, expanding access to primary, secondary, and tertiary
education.
Universal
Basic Education (UBE): Launched in 1999 to ensure free,
compulsory basic education for all children.
PHILOSOPHY
OF WESTERN EDUCATION
It
is based on literacy, moral training, critical thinking, and preparing
individuals for formal employment and modern life.
Religious and Moral
Instruction: Rooted in Christian values and moral behavior.
1.
Intellectual
Development: Focus on literacy, numeracy, logic, and
scientific thinking.
2.
Discipline
and Structure: Encouraged order, respect for
authority, and formal schooling.
3.
Preparation
for Employment: Education aimed at producing clerks,
teachers, and civil servants for colonial administration.
EDUCATIONAL
IMPLICATIONS TO NIGERIAN CITIZENS
It
improved literacy and job opportunities but also caused regional imbalance and
reduced focus on traditional Nigerian education.
Positive
Implications:
1.
Literacy and Skill Development: More
Nigerians became literate and acquired skills useful for modern jobs.
2.
Access to Higher Education: Led to the
growth of universities and professional training.
3.
National Development: Created a class of
educated citizens who contributed to politics, health, economy, and civil
service.
4.
Global Integration: Nigerians can now
study and work globally because of the Western-style system.
Negative
Implications:
1.
Neglect of Indigenous Knowledge:
Traditional systems of education were devalued or ignored.
2.
Regional Disparities: The North was
slower to adopt Western education, creating inequality.
3.
Over dependence on Certificates: Focus
shifted to getting degrees instead of practical skills.
4.
Alien Curriculum: Early education didn't
reflect Nigerian culture, leading to a loss of identity in some cases.
Conclusion
The development of
Western education in Nigeria has greatly shaped the nation’s progress. While it
brought modernization, literacy, and new opportunities, it also introduced
cultural and social challenges. A balanced approach that respects both Western
and indigenous educational philosophies is essential for Nigeria’s future.