Educationist Opposes Scrapping Of Computer Studies, Civic Education

Professor Sandra Chidinma Duru has kicked against the calls for the scrapping of Computer Studies and Civic Education from Nigeria’s school curriculum.

She warned that the move if actualised would undermine national development and democratic values.
Duru, a renowned educationist, said the plan would also be major setback, as it would weaken Nigeria’s global competitiveness and civic consciousness.

She reacted in a series of strongly worded posts on her official social media platforms, which sparked widespread debate, following comments by Senator Ireti Kingibe questioning the relevance of the two subjects.

The professor said Computer Studies had become a basic survival skill in an age driven by technology and artificial intelligence, stressing that it was no longer optional for learners.

“A child who lacks basic computer knowledge today is already disadvantaged tomorrow,” she said, calling for the subject to be made compulsory from primary to secondary school levels.

Duru added that computer literacy was critical for innovation, problem-solving and access to opportunities across sectors such as banking, healthcare, governance and entrepreneurship.

On Civic Education, she insisted that the subject was non-negotiable, describing it as vital to building responsible citizens and addressing societal problems.

She linked challenges such as corruption, voter apathy and weak civic engagement to poor civic literacy, warning that removing the subject would worsen the issues.

Clarifying misconceptions, Duru explained that Civic Education was distinct from Government as a subject, noting that while Government focused on political structures, Civic Education emphasised values, rights, duties and ethical behaviour.

Turning to the minister of education and the National Assembly, Prof. Duru said the real issue was why the subjects were not already compulsory, adequately funded and regularly updated.