PHILOSOPHY AND PRAXIS

To destroy a nation, as is visibly emblazoned at the entrance to a South African college, doesn’t need the use of atomic bombs or long range missiles. It only requires lowering or destroying the educational standards. In other words, the growth or collapse of a nation depends on her educational system; on the skills and values the academe inculcates the members of society. This essay identified the myriad crises in modern Nigeria and most multiethnic societies as arising from ineffectual educational system that tacitly promotes greed, unhealthy rivalry, and the tendency to view reality through a bifurcating lens that pitches humanity into “I-thou”, “we-them” conflict trajectory. It highlighted the harm done to society by various forms of injustice, exclusionary practices and attempts at cultural homogenization; and concluded by noting that the adoption of the values of intercultural dialogue, justice and inclusion as key educational modules will help quell the tide of decay, and promote growth in our pluralistic societies.

Open Full Text (PDF)