Peace Isama
Peering into the academic journey of undergraduates at University of Jos, (UNIJOS) Nigeria revealed how the quality of education being offered is not totally commensurate with its extent of practicality in real world situations.
In a conversation with some of the students, their hearts burned with dissatisfaction for not being offered the very best despite recent hikes in school charges. This, like a sore grape in the mouth, has discouraged some from being at their best while the academic journey still unfolds. Though many continue to hang in, hoping for practical knowledge and experience to smolder again.
Quiet expectations
Sophie Gideon, a 300-level student of Mass Communication at the University of Jos said that: “Classroom theories serve as an eye opener, a window and a guide into the practical in the field. However, the teaching method can be considered as average which often devalues the relevance. We have seen where only the theoretical aspects are emphasized while the practical side of the learning curves seems weak. “ I believe both are essential today” Sophie said
In the quest for more practical knowledge and experience, some students have embraced volunteering and internships opportunities, internet and close association with senior colleagues and industry bodies.
Sophie Gideon’s story mirrors experience of many who have stretched their tentacles of curiosity beyond the classroom walls. Matthew Israel, a 400-level student of Pharmacy said he’s only 40% confident of solving the real-world problems with his current level of knowledge despite spending half of his study years at UniJos.
Above reveals how lopsided the quality of education has been and needs urgent attention before it grows into a menace of producing half baked breads at the end of each academic session.
“There are a lot of disparities though similarities exist, over 60% of the theories communicated in the classroom are far from applicable in the real world”. Matthew Israel shared
The method of teaching by the majority of my lecturers is far below standard in comparison to what is achievable currently across the globe. I believe the lecturers should take out time to explore what is the current trend and incorporate it into their patterns, and also the curriculum should be reviewed to be more focused on solving real world situations.” Israel said.
Staggering realities
Mr Jimmie Matytek, a lecturer at UniJos stated how there is a great disconnect with classroom theories and real-world practice. He believes there are innovations that disrupt the way things are done in society. “For instance, telemedicine ensures that a consultant oncologist in Manitoba can successfully direct and perform an open heart surgery in Jos.”
As a lecturer, he gave a 50% score to the level of equipment students are being given. He believes that when the responsibility is being equally shared between lecturers and students then one shoulder won’t be overburdened.
Sadly, this is one of the chief reasons why many social analysts are faced with the dilemma of universities producing educated graduates who are unemployable as the skills are absent.
A forward momentum and hope for Nigerian graduates
Education and human capital strength are inseparable. If Nigeria must reach this reality, then her universities must turn on a new leaf and embrace quality and wholesome education which prepares graduates as a value-added resource of human capital strength.
In 2023, UNICEF reported that 75% of children aged 7-14 lack basic literacy and number skills. The World Economic Forum ranked Nigeria’s quality of primary education at 120th and its quality of tertiary education at 117th out of 137 countries in 2017/2018.
These records sparked hope amidst fear and with an ignited fire of intentionality, both lecturers and students can tell a different story. Education in Nigeria and particularly in UniJos is faced with myriads of challenges ranging from the low standard of teaching, to strike actions and insecurity.Many like Israel and Sophie are still hopeful, waiting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
“My academic journey in UniJos has been a bumpy ride, a lot of delays but I do hope an end will come.”
