| dc.description.abstract | This policy brief emphasizes the urgent need to reinstate History as a core subject in Nigerian primary and secondary schools. The removal of History from the curriculum in 2009 has resulted in a significant knowledge gap among young Nigerians regarding their national heritage, cultural identity, and historical context. This omission has far-reaching consequences, including a lack of national pride, disconnection from cultural heritage, and a void in purpose and meaning in national existence. The brief argues that the study of History is essential for fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness among young Nigerians. Furthermore, the brief highlights the importance of History education in promoting national identity, social cohesion, and informed citizenship. It also notes that the lack of History education has contributed to a decline in the study of social sciences and humanities in Nigerian universities. To address this issue, the policy brief recommends the following legislative interventions:
• Pursuant to Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, which empower the National Assembly to conduct oversight and investigations, the National Assembly may wish to conduct investigations and hold public hearings to review the implementation of the National Education Policy, with particular emphasis on the Re-Inclusion of History education curriculum.
• The National Assembly may wish to enact a “History Education Act” to provide a robust framework for reinstating History as a core subject, complete with implementation guidelines and oversight mechanisms.
• The National Assembly may wish to provide a provision in the “History Education Act” for the establishment of a “History Education Commission” to monitor the implementation of History education, identify areas for improvement, and promote best practices. | en_US |
