A prominent academic has issued a strong appeal for Nigerian schools to overhaul how they teach science and technology subjects, arguing that the nation's socio-economic progress depends on it.
The Call for a Pedagogical Shift
Professor Adebisi Awodun, a Professor of Physics Education at the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science, and Technology in Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State, made the call. He delivered his argument during an inaugural lecture titled 'Refocusing Physics pedagogies: Blueprint to potent corollaries' on 15 January 2026.
Professor Awodun emphasised that a country's development is directly linked to its advancement in science and technology. He stated that no nation can afford to neglect effective science teaching if it aims for meaningful progress. He identified Physics as the most fundamental science, underpinning critical sectors like health, agriculture, energy, and information technology.
Addressing the 'Abstract' Challenge
The professor acknowledged a major hurdle: the abstract and mathematically demanding nature of Physics, which often discourages students. He lamented that despite government efforts to equip schools, examination outcomes remain unsatisfactory.
He pointed to the fluctuating performance trends in Physics in the West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) as clear evidence of the problem. To combat this, Awodun strongly advocated for a move away from conventional, lecture-based methods.
His research indicates that outdoor, activity-based teaching approaches are significantly more effective than traditional classroom instruction for improving secondary school students' performance in Physics.
Recommendations for a Brighter Future
Professor Awodun presented a clear path forward with two key recommendations:
- Physics teachers should be encouraged and trained to adopt outdoor teaching methods. This hands-on approach would demystify the subject, simplify its abstract concepts, and stimulate student interest for better academic results.
- The government must support this shift with concrete policies and legislation to facilitate the widespread adoption of these simplified pedagogies in secondary schools across Nigeria.
By making science subjects more accessible and engaging, Professor Awodun believes Nigeria can unlock greater student potential, leading to improved exam scores and, ultimately, a stronger foundation for the country's technological and economic ambitions.
