Problems and Prospects of Adult Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Authors

  • Anthony Okirika Department of Adult Education and Community Development, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Nigeria Author
  • Hart Biebele Department of Adult Education and Community Development, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Nigeria Author

Keywords:

Adult Education, empowers, Growth, Problems & Prospects, Sustainable Development

Abstract

Adult education is an important avenue for advancing sustainable development in Nigeria through lifelong learning and human-capital development. This paper examines the major problems affecting adult education and considers its prospects for sustainable development. Drawing on relevant literature, the paper identifies poor recognition, inadequate funding, shortage of qualified educators, insufficient infrastructure, weak planning and monitoring, politicisation, socio-economic barriers and poor sensitisation as major constraints. Despite these challenges, adult education has considerable potential to support skills development, health improvement, environmental awareness, poverty reduction, civic participation and labour-market development. The paper argues that stronger government commitment, improved funding, professional staffing, relevant curricula, effective monitoring, stakeholder participation and appropriate use of technology are necessary to strengthen adult education in Nigeria. A more responsive adult education system can contribute substantially to inclusive human development and sustainable national development.

References

Abie, S. (2019). Curriculum Studies: Theory and practice. Emmanest Ventures and Data Communication.

Adedokun, M.O. (2013). Finding solutions to challenges facing adult education in Nigeria. International Journal of Learning and Development, 3(4), 23-32

Fasokun, T.O. (2008). Status of adult education practice in Nigeria. In R.O. Igbo (ed). Contemporary Adult Education: An Inclusive Approach. CIDJAP Printing Press

Hassan, M.A., & Oyebamiji, M.A. (2012). An introduction to the study of adult education. JFA Nigeria Enterprise

Imhabekhai, C.I. (2009). Programme development and management in adult and non- formal education. AMFITOP Books.

Kajuru, O. (2016). Community education as a tool for sustainable community development projects in selected Local Government Areas of Rivers State. [M.Ed Dissertation, Faculty of Education, University of Port Harcourt].

Kpeno, A.E. (2025). Adult education. Practice and contemporary perspectives. Dan Printer & Co

Nzeneri, I.S. (2008). Handbook on adult education, principles and practices. Abigab Associates Limited.

Nzeneri, I.S. (2010). An introduction to research methods and statistics. Abigab Associates Limited.

Okafor, F.R. (2006). The mass media. Longman.

Okirika, A & Igoni, V. (2023). Reengineering Information and Communication Technology in Community Development for Sustainable Knowledge Economy. Journal of Resourcefulness and Distinction 19(1)192-204

Okirika, A. (2023). Adult Education as a Catalyst for Human Capital and National Development. In Ishikaku E.C.V & Mandah, S.N.N (eds.). Education and National Development. Alabo Tugwel Nayeiyi Agina-Obu ,172-183.

Okirika, A. (2023). Adult education programs for sustainable peace towards community development in Rivers State. P.hD Thesis. Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt

Seya, P. T. (2005). Adult education and African development in the context of globalization. Adult Education and Development, 65, 95–118.

Ugwu, A. N., & Mbalisi, O. F. (2016). Sociology of adult education. Chi Best Printing and Publishing Company.

Ukwaba, L.C. (2015). Constraints on the implementation of adult education programs in Nigeria. International Journal of Education and Research, 2(3), 12–23.

Downloads

Published

2026-04-30