COEASU Erudite Journal is an annual multidisciplinary e-journal which interrogates education, humanities, sciences, target groups, library and information science, vocational, technical and entrepreneurial studies, creativity and innovation, management and security issues. It is an essential reading for anyone interested in various aspects of knowledge. Articles are subjected to peer review, thus are of optimal quality. While Erudite Journal is domiciled in the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria, the editorial team consists of distinguished scholars around the world.
THE IMPACT OF MATHEMATICS EDUCATION AND INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON JOB CREATION, POVERTY ERADICATION AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF AFIJIO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, OYO STATE
The study was carried out to identify the role of Mathematics Education and the application of Information Communication Technology in solving the present inflation problem, high level of poverty and unemployment in Afijio Local Government area of Nigeria. Nigeria is a Nation blessed with a lot of resources, but still counted among under developed countries where 2/3 of the populations are living under the poverty line. The paper identified two major factors that hinder development in Nigeria which are; high levels of poverty and unemployment. The paper identified the role of Mathematics Education and the knowledge of Information Communication Technology in solving these highlighted problems. The paper recommended that government should invest on Mathematics Education and Information Communication Technology by providing all the facilities needed to teach these subjects appropriately in Secondary schools, Colleges and Universities so as to be able to raise independent manpower that can create jobs as a way out of unemployment as well as for National development.
Assessment, Women, Agriculture, National development, Role
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DETERMINANTS OF PERCEIVED STRESS DURING PREGNANCY AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN IGBOORA, OYO STATE, NIGERIA
Pregnancy represents a pivotal stage in a woman’s life and is frequently accompanied by substantial physical, emotional, and psychological adjustments that may affect maternal well-being. One prominent concern during this period is perceived pregnancy stress, which has been associated with unfavourable maternal and fetal outcomes. Spousal support and pregnancy-related anxiety have been identified as critical psychosocial factors influencing stress experiences during pregnancy; however, their relative contributions remain insufficiently examined within the Nigerian context, particularly in Igboora, Oyo State. This study therefore investigated the determinants of perceived stress during pregnancy among pregnant women in Igboora, Oyo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, involving 300 pregnant women receiving antenatal care across selected health facilities in the state. Data were collected using validated instruments, including the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire (PRAQ), and a Spousal Support Inventory. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyses were employed to address the study objectives. Results indicated that the mean perceived stress score (PSS = 18.64, SD = 6.92) reflected a moderate level of stress among participants. Regression findings revealed that spousal support was a significant negative predictor of perceived pregnancy stress (β = −0.42, p < .001), accounting for 17.6% of the variance in stress levels. In contrast, pregnancy-related anxiety emerged as a strong positive predictor (β = +0.54, p < .001), explaining 29.2% of the variance. These findings highlight the buffering role of spousal support and the amplifying effect of anxiety on maternal stress. The study recommends increased spousal involvement in prenatal care through antenatal education and counseling, alongside routine screening for pregnancy-related anxiety. Community-based interventions should further promote emotional and practical family support to reduce maternal stress and improve pregnancy outcomes.
THE ROLE OF GLAM INSTITUTIONS IN PROMOTING CULTURAL HERITAGE IN NIGERIA
Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums (GLAM) are responsible for safeguarding national heritage by collecting, preserving, and disseminating knowledge resources. Cultural heritage, no doubt embodies the identity, history, and memory of a people. In Nigeria, the preservation of cultural heritage is vital for fostering national unity, education, and research. However, the Nigerian GLAM sector, like others in Africa, faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited technical capacity, and funding constraints, Moreover, technological advancement has broadened the concept of cultural heritage beyond physical artifacts to include digital-born materials, such as websites, digital art, and social media content, which form an essential part of contemporary cultural identity. Thus, the role of GLAM institutions have evolved to encompass the management of both analogue and digital heritage, requiring new competencies in digital curation, metadata management, data preservation, and ethical stewardship. This paper therefore sets out to examine the roles of GLAM institutions in Nigeria as a way of promoting cultural heritage. Efforts were made to identify its dimensions and challenges, conclusions were made that community-based and participatory conservation is gaining recognition as institutions are increasingly collaborating with local custodians, artists, and cultural groups to ensure ethical, inclusive preservation practices. Therefore, it was recommended that governments should endeavor to update and harmonize heritage preservation laws to include enforcement mechanisms, funding provisions, and inter-agency coordination among others.
THE ROLES OF VISUAL ARTS IN RURAL AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Visual Arts plays a very crucial role in the economic sustenance and cultural identity of rural and urban communities worldwide. This study emphasises the potential of visual arts in enhancing rural and urban livelihoods by integrating modern innovations to address contemporary challenges. Through an analysis of this manuscript, the socio-economic contributions of visual arts, such as income generation, cultural preservation, and community cohesion are examined. It also highlights the impact of technology, skill development, and policy support on craftsmen. Challenges limiting market access, increasing raw material costs, and discouraging younger generations from pursuing the craft are identified, along with potential solutions, including e-commerce platforms and eco-friendly innovations. It further emphasises the importance of striking a balance between tradition and innovation to ensure the sustainability of visual arts as a livelihood strategy. By promoting a sense of pride and ownership among rural artisans, policymakers and stakeholders can foster economic development, cultural values, and the sustainability of innovative ideas in the visual arts. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers and NGOs to advance the craft and ensure its relevance in the modern world, ultimately contributing to the broader discourse on the role of traditional crafts in sustainable rural and urban development.
ENHANCING SPORTS THROUGH INNOVATIVE HANDS ON PHYSICAL EDUCATION: A RECIPE FOR LOCAL ECONOMIC UPLIFTMENT IN OYO STATE
This study examined the role of innovative hands on physical education in enhancing sports development and promoting local economic upliftment in Oyo State. Using a mixed method research design, 150 participants were purposively selected from a population of 300; comprising student athletes, physical education teachers, and coaches. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and semi structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Chi square tests at 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that innovative hands on approaches such as practical drills, demonstration based coaching, and simulation exercises significantly improved skill acquisition, participation and performance in sports. Sports development also generated local economic opportunities, including coaching, equipment supply, event management, and youth employment. Challenges such as inadequate facilities, insufficient funding, and limited teacher training were identified. The study concludes that integrating innovative hands on learning approaches into physical education programmes strengthens sports development and contributes to grassroots economic empowerment in Oyo State. Recommendations were made that schools and sports training centre’s should be provided with adequate sports equipment and technological tools that support hands on learning and improve the quality of sports training.
EFFECT OF FLIPPED CLASSROOM INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGY ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT OF BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS IN FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING IN OYO STATE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
This study investigated the effect of a flipped classroom instructional strategy on the academic achievement of Business Education students in Financial Accounting in Oyo State tertiary institutions. A quasi-experimental pre-test-post-test non-equivalent control group design was adopted. The sample comprised 187 NCE II and Year II university Business Education students selected from two tertiary institutions in Oyo State, with 95 students in the experimental group taught using flipped classroom strategy and 92 in the control group taught using conventional lecture method. The Financial Accounting Achievement Test (FAAT), a 40-item multiple-choice instrument with a reliability coefficient of 0.78 established using Kuder-Richardson 20 formula, was used for data collection. Analysis of Covariance and t-test were employed to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in academic achievement between the two groups (F(1,184) = 42.367, p = .000, η² = .187), with the flipped classroom group outperforming the conventional group. However, no significant difference was found between male and female students' achievement in the flipped classroom group (t(93) = 0.584, p = .561). It was concluded that the flipped classroom instructional strategy is more effective in enhancing academic achievement in Financial Accounting and is gender-friendly. The study recommends the integration of flipped classroom strategy into the pedagogical training of Business Education lecturers and its adoption in the curriculum of tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
EFFECTS OF FINANCIAL STRESS AND ACCESS TO SUPPORTSERVICES ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF ADULT LEARNERS IN OPENUNIVERS ITY IN IBADAN METROPOLITAN AREA
Financial stress remains a major challenge confronting adult learners in open and distance learning institutions , particularly in developing countries where learners often combine education with work and family responsibilities. This study examines the effect of financial stress and access to support services on the academic performance of adult learners in Open University within the Ibadan metropolitan area, Oyo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The population comprised adult learners enrolled in selected study centers, from which a sample of 420 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring financial stress, availability and utilization of support services, and self reported academic performance. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that financial stress had a significant positive effect on academic performance, while access to and utilization of learner support services also had a significant positive effect. The study further showed that support service s alleviated the negative impact of financial stress on academic outcomes. The paper concludes that strengthening financial and academic support structures is essential for improving adult learners’ performance in open universities. The paper recommends that Open Universities should establish financial aid and scholarship programmes for adult learners and institutions should strengthen academic counseling and mentoring services.
EXTENT OF ICT UTILIZATION AND AVAILABLE RESOURCES FOR TEACHING BUSINESS EDUCATION COURSES IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA
This study examined the extent of availability and utilization of information and communication technology (ICT) resources for teaching business education courses in Oyo state tertiary institutions. Specifically, the study investigated the extent of ICT usage in teaching and learning, assessed how ICT resources are utilized, and examined gender-based differences in students' perceptions. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised all Business Education students in three government-owned tertiary institutions in Oyo State: Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo; Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo; and Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate. A sample of 150 Business Education students (50 from each institution) was purposively selected. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled "Questionnaire on ICT in Business Education" (QIBE) with a reliability coefficient of 0.88 obtained through test-retest method. Frequency counts, percentages, mean, and standard deviation were used to answer research questions, while independent samples t-test was employed to test hypotheses at 0.05 significance level. The findings revealed low extent of ICT utilization in teaching and learning Business Education courses (grand mean = 2.31). Furthermore, ICT resources were poorly utilized in instructional delivery (grand mean = 2.19), with all items rated below the acceptable mean of 2.50. The study also found no significant difference in the mean responses of male and female students on the role of ICT (t-cal = 1.42, p > 0.05) and on ICT resource utilization (t-cal = 1.18, p > 0.05). The study recommended that government and institutional management should prioritize the provision of functional ICT facilities, ensure stable internet connectivity, organize regular ICT training workshops for both lecturers and students, and enforce ICT integration in curriculum delivery.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STEM TEACHERS’ SELFEFFICACY AND EPISTEMIC BELIEFS ON PRACTICE OFACCOMMODATIONS FOR LEARNERS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENTIN IBADAN
The practice of inclusive STEM education for learners with hearing impairment in Ibadan, Nigeria, remains challenging due to persistent systemic constraints. This descriptive study examined the relationship between STEM teachers’ self efficacy, epistemic beliefs, and accommodation practices. Guided by two research questions and two null hypotheses, the study moved beyond policy compliance to explore the psychological factors that shape effective inclusive practice. Data were collected from 376 STEM teachers using a multi stage sampling technique. Instruments included a researcher developed Accommodation Practice Inventory (API), a modified Teachers’ Efficacy for Inclusive Practices (TEIP) scale, and an adapted Epistemic Beliefs Questionnaire (EBQ). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, regression analysis, and independent samples t tests. Results revealed a significant positive relationship between accommodation practices and self efficacy (r = .56, p < .001), as well as between accommodation practices and epistemic beliefs (r = .72, p < .0 01). Together, self efficacy and epistemic beliefs accounted for 60.7% of the variance in accommodation practices (R² = .607, p < .001). No significant gender difference was found in teachers’ self efficacy (t(374) = 1.944, p = .051). The findings indicate that teachers’ confidence and beliefs about knowledge jointly influence their capacity to accommodate learners with hearing impairment. Integrated professional development that strengthens both constructs is therefore recommended.
POLITICAL PARTICIPATION OF MINORITY GROUPS IN OKE-OGUN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Political participation of minority groups remains a critical issue in Nigeria, particularly in regions such as Oke-Ogun, Oyo State, where socio-political structures often favour majority groups. This review paper critically examines existing literature on the challenges and opportunities associated with the political engagement of minority communities in Oke-Ogun, highlighting patterns of marginalization, underrepresentation, and structural exclusion. Drawing on studies in Nigerian political science, governance, and ethnic relations, the paper synthesizes evidence on key barriers to participation, including institutional biases, limited access to electoral processes, socio-economic constraints, and the dominance of majoritarian political systems. In addition, the review explores mechanisms that have enhanced political inclusion, such as the role of traditional institutions, civil society organizations, decentralization under federalism, and policy interventions aimed at empowering minority communities. By identifying theoretical and empirical gaps in the literature, the paper underscores the need for context-specific strategies to strengthen minority representation and influence in political decision-making. The review concludes that achieving meaningful political participation for minority groups in Oke-Ogun requires a combination of inclusive governance frameworks, targeted civic education, and institutional reforms that foster equity and accountability. This synthesis contributes to ongoing debates on democratic consolidation, federalism, and minority rights in Nigeria, offering insights for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners interested in promoting inclusive political processes in ethnically diverse settings.
ÒÒRÈ NÍWỌ̀N (MODERATION TO GOODNESS) IN YORUBA CULTURAL ETHOS: THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE
This paper examines Òòrè Níwọ̀n, a central Yoruba ethical maxim that advocates moderation in acts of kindness, and explores its alignment with Islamic teachings on moral balance. In Yoruba culture, generosity and communal solidarity are highly valued; however, unrestrained benevolence is recognized as potentially harmful to the giver, the recipient, and the wider community. Similarly, Islam, through the principle of الوسطية (al-wasatiyyah), promotes moderation in all spheres of human conduct, including charity, social interactions, and spiritual devotion. By employing a qualitative research design that integrates literature review, textual analysis, and cultural interpretation, the study highlights the conceptual and practical convergence between Yoruba ethical thought and Islamic moral philosophy. Fieldwork and ethnographic evidence demonstrate that Òòrè Níwọ̀n functions as a cultural tool for guiding responsible action, balancing generosity with wisdom, and sustaining social cohesion. The paper further shows that Islamic principles of moderation complement Yoruba ethical practices; reinforcing the importance of contextual judgment, communal responsibility, and moral discernment. Based on these findings, the study offers practical recommendations, including integrating moderation ethics into educational curricula, promoting culturally and religiously grounded moral education, incorporating moderation principles into leadership training, and encouraging balanced practices in family and community life. By bridging Yoruba cultural ethics and Islamic moral thought, this paper provides a framework for cultivating sustainable, socially responsible, and ethically conscious communities in contemporary society.
A HISTORICAL EXAMINATION OF COLONIAL POLICIES AND THE DYNAMICS OF ISLĀM IN YORUBA LAND, NIGERIA, 1890–1960
Islām's presence in Yoruba land, Southwestern Nigeria, intersected with British colonial rule in the early 20th century. While Islām had gained footholds in towns like Ibadan, Lagos, and Osogbo, colonial policies significantly influenced its growth. This research examines how specific colonial policies impacted Islām's spread differently across these Yoruba towns, asking how such policies shaped Muslim institutions and local responses. Using qualitative methods, the study analyses colonial archives, Islamic oral histories, and scholarly works. The findings reveal that colonial policies variably aided or checked Islām's institutional growth, shaping distinct local Muslim responses. Ibadan's Muslim community navigated colonial restrictions through adaptive strategies; Lagos' established Muslim networks leveraged economic and political capital; and Osogbo's patterns reflect unique local leadership dynamics and a traditional-Islamic synthesis. The study concludes that Muslim communities exercised significant agency in responding to colonial challenges, establishing educational organisations, developing parallel judicial systems, and mobilising economic resources for Islamic institutions despite marginalisation. Colonial policies frequently produced unintended consequences that paradoxically strengthened Islamic consciousness and institutional development. The research recommends prioritising local Islamic historiography, integrating colonial-era Muslim history into national curricula, strengthening Islamic educational institutions through equitable funding and support, and promoting interfaith dialogue models rooted in Yoruba land's traditions of religious accommodation. The study contributes to understanding regional variations in colonial-Islamic encounters and highlights Muslim community agency in negotiating colonial modernity.
THE ROLE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY(ICT) IN PROMOTING THE TEACHING AND LEARNING OF ECONOMICS INNIGERIA TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
The study examines how information and communication technology (ICT) might support economics education in Nigerian higher education institutions. The need to comprehend how digital tools might improve educational outcomes in a field that is essential to national growth is what motivates this study. The assessment of ICT infrastructure and access, the effect of ICT on students' understanding and interaction with economic ideas, and the main obstacles to its successful integration were the specific goals. Using a mixed-methods approach, information was gathered by conducting in-depth interviews with 15 lecturers at two colleges of education and also distributing structured questionnaires to 50 students studying economics at two colleges of education. The results show a notable discrepancy between the actual use of ICT and its imagined potential. Despite the fact that both students and lecturers agreed that ICT can simplify complicated models, offer real-time data, and promote interactive learning, its integration is hindered by a lack of proper infrastructure, erratic internet, a lack of digital literacy among some lecturers, and a continued dependence on conventional lecture techniques. According to the study's findings, ICT has the potential to revolutionised economics education in Nigeria, but systemic limitations have mostly prevented this potential from being realised A curriculum redesign that incorporates ICT-based tools, mandatory and ongoing ICT training for academic staff, immediate investment in campus-wide digital infrastructure, and policy support from educational regulatory bodies to encourage technology-enhanced pedagogy are some suggestions for closing this gap.
Information and Communication Technology
INTEGRATION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONTECHNOLOGY (ICT) TO TEACHING AND LEARNING FUNCTIONALLITERACY IN NIGERIA
The paper examines integration of information and communication technology to teaching and learning functional literacy in Nigeria. Functional literacy is a proliferation for human development. Many adult literacy centres seem to focus mainly on the teaching of the skills of reading, writing and calculation. This paper elucidates various ways of building functionality in adult literacy programmes through the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The functional potentials of ICT in adult literacy programmes include critical consciousness, improved productivity; improved political participation, eradication of poverty, and maintaining relevance in the changing world. Discussions were made on how ICT can enhance the teaching of functional literacy. Conclusion was drawn and the following recommendations were made: ICT should be integrated into adult literacy programme, adult educators and instructors should be trained in the use of ICT in teaching and learning process and the government should provide sufficient financial support for adult literacy programme.
TEACHERS’ VARIABLES AS PREDICTORS OF STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS MATHEMATICS AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS` IN OGUN EAST SENATORIAL DISTRICT
This study investigated the predictive roles of teachers’ variables such as gender, qualifications, and teaching experience on students’ academic performance and attitudes toward Mathematics among senior secondary school students in Ogun East Senatorial District, Nigeria. Adopting a descriptive survey design, the study sampled 20 Mathematics teachers and 606 SSII students across four local government areas using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a Mathematics Performance Test (MPT) and a Mathematics Attitude Scale (MAS). Logistic regression was employed to test two hypotheses: whether students’ high achievement and positive attitudes toward Mathematics could be reliably predicted from the selected teacher variables. Results revealed that teachers’ qualifications significantly predicted both high achievement (p = .010) and positive attitude (p = .005) toward Mathematics. However, teachers’ gender and teaching experience were not significant predictors in either case. Based on the outcome of the study, the study recommends among others the need for professional development and the implementation of student-centered teaching approaches to enhance instructional quality. It also calls for a holistic educational strategy that includes adequate resources and stakeholder collaboration to further support student achievement and attitude in Mathematics.
LANGUAGE EDUCATION AND SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Language education is crucial for fostering sustainable national development as it boosts educational achievement, economic participation, and social inclusion. Mastery of a language broadens access to quality education and job opportunities, allowing countries to participate more effectively in the global economy. Nevertheless, challenges like linguistic diversity, poor policy implementation, and the marginalization of speakers of minority languages often perpetuate inequality and weaken social cohesion. This paper suggests several strategies to enhance the role of language education in sustainable development. These include promoting multilingual education through mother tongue-based instruction in early schooling, integrating sustainability topics into language curricula, and investing in teacher training to support multilingual and sustainability-focused teaching methods. The use of digital technologies is highlighted as a way to increase access to language learning, especially in underserved communities. Moreover, involving local communities in curriculum design ensures cultural relevance and alignment with local development priorities. Additionally, policy reforms and increased funding are essential for providing the institutional support needed for inclusive language education. By implementing these strategies, language education can serve as a driving force for equitable development, social cohesion, and citizen empowerment, facilitating sustainable growth at both national and global levels.
Education for sustainable development (ESD)
THE IMPLOSION OF NATIONAL SECURITY AND ITS IMPLICATIONS ON THE DELIVERY OF QUALITY EDUCATION IN NIGERIA’S FOURTH REPUBLIC
The paper examines the complex relationship between national security and the delivery of quality education in Nigeria during the Fourth Republic. Anchored on Social Conflict Theory and Human Capital Theory, the study explains how persistent insecurity reflects underlying social inequalities and power struggles, while simultaneously undermining education as a critical investment in national development. Nigeria’s deteriorating security environment marked by insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and ethnic conflicts has significantly disrupted educational access, damaged infrastructure, and endangered the safety of students and teachers. Using qualitative research methods and analytical approaches, the study assesses the impact of security threats such as Boko Haram, kidnappings, and armed violence on educational outcomes, particularly in northern Nigeria. The findings reveal that prolonged insecurity has contributed to declining educational standards and deepened the education crisis by weakening human capital formation. The paper concludes by proposing policy-oriented recommendations aimed at addressing security challenges and safeguarding education as a vital tool for sustainable national development.
FACTORS INFLUENCING STUDY HABITS OF STUDENTS OF FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (SPECIAL), OYO
This study examined factors influencing study habits of Students of Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo. A proportionate sampling was used to select 95 respondents from the study area. Data were collected using questionnaires. Descriptive statistical tools and Chi square analysis were used for data analysis and hypotheses was tested at 0.05 level of significance. The results obtained show that there was no significant association between distraction in the place of study, economic conditions of students, workload and students attending parties and respondents’ study habit (P=0.003; P<0.05). Based on the findings, it was concluded that irrespective of distraction in the place of study and economic condition of the respondents, study habits are not predictable. For instance, some students prefer to study amidst noise without being distracted and some students with poor economic conditions still find time to study amidst hustling and still perform better academically.
THE ROLE OF ARABIC LANGUAGE SKILLS IN MARKET ACCESS AND TRADE NETWORKS FOR ENTREPRENEURS IN OYO METROPOLIS
The role of Arabic language skills in accessing new markets and trade networks presents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs in Oyo Metropolis, yet gaps in proficiency and systemic barriers hinder effective engagement with Arabic-speaking markets. This study investigated the current level of Arabic language proficiency and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in leveraging these skills for market access. A descriptive survey design was employed, with data collected from 80 registered entrepreneurs across sectors such as textiles, agriculture, and food processing using a structured questionnaire titled the "Arabic Language Skills and Trade Access Questionnaire (ALSTQ)," which demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.82). The findings revealed low levels of Arabic proficiency among entrepreneurs, with mean scores indicating disagreement across all assessed items, including speaking, formal training, and business communication. Furthermore, respondents strongly agreed on facing significant challenges, such as inadequate training, limited exposure to Arabic-speaking environments, cultural barriers, and insufficient resources for learning Arabic. The study concludes that while entrepreneurs recognise the importance of Arabic language skills, systemic interventions are critical to overcoming existing barriers. Recommendations include implementing targeted Arabic language training programmes, organising cultural orientation workshops, providing institutional support for skill development, and strengthening trade networks with Arabic-speaking regions to enhance market access and competitiveness.
ISLAMIC EMPOWERMENT AT GRASSROOTS LEVEL IN NIGERIA: COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF TRENDS, AWARENESS, AND WAY FORWARD
This research examines Islamic empowerment in Nigeria, focusing on culturally relevant development models amidst socioeconomic crises. It argues that strategies must integrate Islamic principles such as social justice and economic equity to address pervasive poverty and regional inequality, especially in northern Muslim majority areas. The analysis highlights a complex ecosystem of empowerment involving governmental, international, and non governmental organisations. Government led initiatives face challenges like corruption and disconnection from communities, while international aid often raises sustainability concerns. Conversely, Islamic faith based organisations excel by offering culturally relevant interventions, such as Islamic microfinance. Key obstacles include a significant knowledge gap and lack of reliable data on Muslim beneficiaries. The study proposes a solution framework emphasising the strengthening of Islamic financial systems, enhancing local governance, and promoting educational reforms that marry Islamic and modern skills. It concludes that multi stakeholder, culturally sensitive approaches are crucial for sustainable empowerment of Nigerian Muslims.
THE ROLE OF HISTORY EDUCATION IN FOSTERING PEACE AND SECURITY IN NIGERIA
Nigeria's history is replete with episodes of conflict, insecurity, and social unrest. This paper examines the role of history education in fostering peace and security in Nigeria. Among other issues this study critically analyses Nigeria’s history curriculum and educational policies in Nigeria. This paper identifies the gaps and biases in the current history education system that perpetuates divisions and fuel conflicts. It argues that a reoriented history elucidation, emphasizing inclusive added narratives, can promote national unity, tolerance, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. Findings of this study reveals that Nigeria's colonial and post-colonial experiences have shaped the country's history education, often prioritize unity over diverse perspectives. It contended that a more comprehensive and representative history education can help Nigerians understand their shared experiences, appreciate their differences, and develop empathy and mutual respect. The paper recommends a revision of the history curriculum to include diverse perspectives, encourage critical thinking, and promote peaceful conflict resolution. By doing so, Nigeria can harness the power of history education to build a more harmonious and secure society.
CREATING AN ACCESSIBLE ENVIRONMENT FOR PERSONS WITH DEAF-BLINDNESS: THE INTEGRAL ROLES OF PROFESSIONALS AND CAREGIVERS
Persons with deaf-blindness, a heterogeneous group with varying degrees of combined vision and hearing loss, face profound challenges in accessing information, communication, and navigating physical and social environments. Creating a truly accessible environment for this population requires a multifaceted, person-centered approach that extends beyond physical modifications to encompass communication, social interaction, and psychological well-being. This paper explores the concept of accessibility through the lens of deaf-blindness, arguing that it is a dynamic process co-constructed by a collaborative network of professionals and caregivers. It delineates the specific, yet interconnected, roles of key professionals including intervenors, teachers of the deaf-blind, orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists in assessing needs, building skills, and facilitating access. Simultaneously, it highlights the indispensable role of caregivers (both familial and paid) as constant facilitators, communicators, and advocates who translate professional strategies into daily life. The paper concludes that sustainable accessibility is only achievable through a synergistic partnership where professionals equip and empower caregivers, and caregivers provide the continuous implementation and feedback necessary for genuine inclusion. Recommendations for interdisciplinary training and systemic support are provided.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY: A TOOL FOR INNOVATION, GROWTH AND DIVERSIFICATION OF THE NIGERIA’S ECONOMY
ICT’s role cannot be overemphasized as it is a great tool for innovation, economic growth and development of any country. The journey of ICT in Nigeria began around 1960s, and it has successfully created and transformed new trends which cut across almost all sectors ranging from knowledge dissemination, social development, economic growth, education among others. Economic diversification is the ability of a country to employ more than a single means of generating income. African countries recorded good performance with regards to mobile banking transaction which enhances the financial development of Nigeria and other African countries based on mobile phone technology as an ICT innovation. ICT sector in Nigeria bolstered the country’s GDP with 19.54% in 2023 compared to 2022’s 18.44%. Some of the challenges facing the use of ICT in economic diversification include but not limited to bad network, poor power supply, corruption, poor orientation on the use of ICT among others. As the global economy moves towards more sustainable practices, Nigeria faces the urgent need to diversify its economy; embracing ICT not only in energy but across all sectors which can stimulate new industries, create jobs, and reduce economic dependence on oil. Nigeria can ensure a more balanced and sustainable economic future, reducing its vulnerability to international oil market fluctuations and fostering a more robust economic structure.
TEACHER TRAINEES' PERCEPTION OF EFFECTS OF LANGUAGE AND SOCIAL MEDIA ON INSECURITY IN NIGERIA
Insecurity in the country has disrupted the peaceful existence of the citizenry while replacing it with anxiety and stagnation across different spheres of the nation’s development or economy. It has been argued in scholarly works that English Language and Social media play effective roles in National Security. This paper aims to prove to what extent through the views of Teacher Trainees, the English Language and the selected Social media platforms, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram affect insecurity. The study used a quantitative research method through questionnaires to determine this. The study found that Nigeria’s insecurity challenge is not caused by the English Language but the three social media platforms. As a solution, it was discovered that the English Language and the selected platforms can proffer solution. It is recommended that the English Language and selected Social media platforms be used to solve the insecurity challenges.
LANGUAGE POLICY AND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE IN MULTILINGUAL CLASSROOMS
The growing linguistic diversity of classrooms worldwide has intensified scholarly and policy oriented debates on the role of language policy in shaping educational practice. Language policy determines which languages are legitimized within educational systems and how these languages are used in instruction, assessment, and interaction. In multilingual classrooms, the alignment or misalignment between language policy and pedagogical practice significantly affects learner’s academic achievement, identity construction, and social inclusion. This article examines the relationship between language policy and educational practice in multilingual classrooms, drawing on key theoretical frameworks in sociolinguistics, applied linguistics, and language education. It explores how macro-level language policies are interpreted and enacted at the micro-level of classroom practice, highlights challenges faced by educators and learners, and discusses evidence-based pedagogical approaches that support multilingual learners. The paper concludes with implications for policymakers, teacher education, and future research, emphasizing the need for flexible, inclusive, and context-sensitive language policies.
UNEMPLOYMENT, INFLATION AND HEALTH PRODUCTIVITY IN NIGERIA
The study examined the interactive effects of inflation and unemployment on health productivity in Nigeria with a view to examining the nexus among inflation, unemployment and health productivity in Nigeria between 1986 and 2024.).The objectives of the study were achieved using Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (DOLS) technique. The findings of the study revealed that inflation has a marginally detrimental effect on health productivity while unemployment, maintains positive correlation with health productivity. The results of the interactive effects revealed that the declining rate of inflation positively affects health productivity while unemployment magnify the effect and reducing rate of unemployment positively affect health productivity while inflation rate augments the effect. The study concludes that that high unemployment and inflation can result in a reduction in health productivity and general health in Nigeria.
EFFECT OF ACTIVITY BASED LEARNING ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT OF STUDENTS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENTS IN OYO, OYO STATE-
This study examined the effect of Mathematics laboratory kits on the academic achievement of students with hearing impairments in Oyo, Oyo State. The research adopted a quasi experimental design involving a pretest posttest control group. Fifty (50) students with hearing impairments were purposively selected from mathematics department in Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Oyo State. The participants were divided into two groups: 25 students in the experimental group and 25 in the control group. T he experimental group was taught mathematics using Mathematics Laboratory Kits, while the control group received conventional instruction. A researcher developed instrument titled Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) was used to measure students’ performance before and after the treatment. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was established using Cronbach’s alpha (α = 0.87). Data collected were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) to control for initial group differences. The findings revealed a significant difference in the post-test achievement scores of students in the experimental and control groups (p < 0.05), indicating that the use of Mathematics Laboratory Kits enhanced students’ understanding and achievement in mathematics. The stud y concluded that Mathematics Laboratory Kits are effective tools for improving mathematics academic achievement among students with hearing impairments. It recommended that teachers should adopt mathematics laboratory kits as part of their teaching practice to enhance achievement, among students with hearing impairment, regular professional development programmes should be organized by the government to equip teachers with skills in using and adapting the strategy for learners with students with hearing impairment adequate quantities of mathematics laboratory kits should be provided in schools to ensure access for all learners, schools should create timetables that allow sufficient time for activity based learning with the kits, rather than focusing only on syllabus coverage, the use of mathematics laboratory kits should be formally integrated into the curriculum, particularly in special education context.
HISTORICAL ANALYSIS OF IMPACT OF ARABIC LANGUAGE IN PRESERVATION AND TRANSMISSION OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE CONTEMPORARY AGE
The Arabic language has historically been more than a medium of communication. It has functioned as a powerful vehicle for the preservation, enrichment, and transmission of knowledge across civilizations. During the Islamic Golden Age (8th–14th centuries), Arabic was elevated as the universal language of science, medicine, mathematics, and philosophy. Arabic remains the liturgical and cultural language of over 400 million speakers worldwide and one of the six official languages of United Nations. It continues to serve as a vehicle for education and research in many Muslim-majority countries. However, its capacity to transmit modern scientific and technological knowledge faces major challenges. The paper adopted theoretical approach in the presentation. Among other things, the research discovered the dominance of English and French in global academia, insufficient development of standardized Arabic Scientific terminology, the digital divide limiting access to Arabic manuscripts and weak institutional policies supporting Arabic in higher education as threats to Arabic language modern development. The research recommends among other things, that with vision, commitment and collective efforts of all stakeholders, Arabic could be a language of enlightenment and global development again.
THE APATHY OF THE NIGERIAN GEN Z TOWARDS AGRICULTURE: A THREAT TO FOOD SECURITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Agriculture remains a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s economy, food systems, and rural livelihoods. However, the declining interest of Nigerian Generation Z in agricultural participation poses a significant challenge to national food security and sustainable economic development. Despite the sector’s potential for employment creation, poverty reduction, and industrial growth, young Nigerians increasingly perceive agriculture as unattractive, risky, and incompatible with modern aspirations. This paper critically examines the causes of Gen Z apathy toward agriculture in Nigeria, analyzes its implications for food security and economic development, and evaluates existing institutional and policy responses. Using recent empirical studies, policy documents, and development reports, the study identifies structural constraints, socio-cultural perceptions, educational gaps, and policy failures as major drivers of youth disengagement. The paper concludes that without deliberate reforms and youth-centered agricultural strategies, Nigeria risks deepening food insecurity, unemployment, and economic stagnation. It offers targeted recommendations to reposition agriculture as a viable and attractive sector for Nigerian Gen Z.
REALISING FULL POTENTIALS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN A DIGITAL ECONOMY: A NUMERICAL REVIEW APPROACH
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is widely considered as a driving force in the current digital economy, with many firms having already invested in AI. Since AI is unconstrained by humans' cognitive limitations and inflexibility, and thus a key assumption in popular press is that AI is crucial for firms' success in digital economy. However, surprisingly, many managers indicate they are yet to benefit from their AI investments. To address this issue, this paper summarises the extant literature on AI in business and management fields to identify how AI can create competitive advantages and underpin the key barriers that prevent AI from realizing its full potentials. Our results suggest AI can increase revenue by improving employee productivity, increasing consumer evaluation, setting competitive price and creating unique resources. AI can also reduce cost by improving efficiency and reducing risks. However, our results also indicate that AI adoption, task nature and AI management are the key barriers preventing AI from realizing its full potentials. This is because AI lacks interpersonal skills. Thus, it is encouraged that future research should focus on improving AI's interpersonal skills.