Language education for character and skill development in Nigeria

Abstract

This article addresses the role of language education for character and skill development in Nigeria. Researches have shown that the greatness of any nation is highly dependent on the ability of that nation to cultivate a deliberate policy that would bring about an enduring legacy for her children or youth, often regarded as indispensable leaders of tomorrow. One sure way of safeguarding that desirable legacy for the tender mind is through exposure to effective language policy that lays emphasis on reading and enactment of stories from literature, especially national literature. This kind of literary experience is indeed critical to the overall children’s personal development. This process of personal development brings about deep sense of responsibility, thereby engendering national orientation, consciousness, patriotism – which are vital indices for character and skill development. The aim of this paper is to examine the feasibility of language education through the instrumentality of the English language and literature as an alternative paradigm shift capable of fostering character and skill development. The research identifies challenges against harnessing language education in Nigeria. These challenges include, poor reading culture, non-availability of literary reading materials. In conclusion, the paper beams its light on viable recommendations aimed at resuscitating language education sector as bedrock of all sustainable development in any progressive society.