The standard of English language education in Rivers State’s public schools has reached a critical point, with a severe shortage of qualified teachers and inadequate training for those in the profession. This has resulted in a decline in the quality of spoken and written English among students, with far-reaching consequences for their future prospects.
Investigations revealed that many public schools in the state have only one or two English language teachers, who are often overwhelmed with teaching large classes of over 100 students. This has led to a lack of individual attention, poor assessment, and inadequate teaching of various aspects of the English language.
Teachers interviewed for this article expressed frustration with the situation, citing the lack of resources, poor working conditions, and inadequate training as major challenges. They also highlighted the need for a unified scheme of work, which would ensure consistency and quality in teaching.
Experts consulted for this article emphasized the importance of addressing these issues urgently. Prof. Ibiere Ken-Maduakor, a professor of English, stressed the need for the Rivers State government to employ more teachers, provide adequate training, and ensure a unified scheme of work. She also advised teachers to take responsibility for their own professional development and explore the use of AI to make their work easier.
Dr. Ikechi Worgu, an educator, added that the quality of English spoken at home and in the neighborhood, as well as the detail with which the English language is taught, are also crucial factors in determining fluency. He emphasized the need for a holistic approach to addressing the crisis, involving government, teachers, and stakeholders.
The implications of this crisis are far-reaching, with students struggling to express themselves effectively in English, a critical skill for success in various aspects of life. The situation also reflects a broader problem in Nigeria’s education sector, where inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified teachers have led to a decline in standards.
To address this crisis, the Rivers State government must take immediate action to:
1. Employ more qualified English language teachers
2. Provide adequate training for teachers in different aspects of the English language
3. Develop a unified scheme of work for English language teaching
4. Improve working conditions and resources for teachers
5. Encourage teachers to take responsibility for their own professional development
Through these steps, the government can help restore the standard of English language education in Rivers State’s public schools and ensure that students receive the quality education they deserve.
