National Aims:
* National Unity and Integration: Education is meant to foster a sense of national identity, unity, and loyalty among diverse ethnic and religious groups. This includes promoting understanding and tolerance between different communities.
* National Development: Education is seen as a crucial tool for economic growth and national development. It aims to equip citizens with the skills and knowledge needed for various sectors of the economy, promoting technological advancement and innovation.
* Self-Reliance and National Productivity: The educational system aims to produce individuals who are self-reliant, creative, and productive members of society, capable of contributing to national progress.
* Moral, Ethical, and Civic Development: Education emphasizes the development of good character, responsible citizenship, and ethical conduct, promoting respect for the law and human rights.
Individual Aims:
* Intellectual Development: Education strives to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, fostering intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning.
* Skill Acquisition: The system aims to provide individuals with vocational and technical skills, making them employable and contributing to the workforce.
* Personal Development: Education seeks to promote the holistic development of individuals, including their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
* Preparation for Further Education: Education at lower levels aims to prepare students for higher education and specialized training in various fields.
Specific Objectives (as reflected in various policy documents):
While these aren't exhaustive, specific objectives often focus on:
* Literacy and Numeracy: Achieving high levels of literacy and numeracy across the population.
* Science and Technology Education: Promoting excellence in science and technology education to drive innovation.
* Improved Access to Education: Expanding access to quality education for all Nigerians, irrespective of their background or location.
* Quality Assurance: Enhancing the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment processes.
* Teacher Development: Investing in the training and professional development of teachers.
* Curriculum Reform: Regularly reviewing and updating the curriculum to meet evolving needs.
It's important to note that the realization of these aims and objectives is an ongoing process facing significant challenges, including inadequate funding, infrastructure limitations, teacher shortages, and inequality of access. While the stated goals are ambitious, the practical implementation often falls short of the ideal.