TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………….………………………………iii
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 4
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 5
1.4 Research Questions. 5
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 6
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 7
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 7
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.1 Introduction. 11
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 11
2.2.1 Human Capital Theory. 11
2.2.2 Capability Approach. 12
2.2.3 Critical Pedagogy Theory. 12
2.2.4 Social Justice Theory. 12
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 13
2.3.1 Overview.. 13
2.3.2 Economics Education and Economic Equity. 13
2.3.3 Theoretical Frameworks and Practical Implications. 14
2.3.4 Historical Context and Current Challenges. 14
2.3.5 Curriculum Design and Implementation. 15
2.3.6 Policy Advocacy and Civic Engagement 15
2.3.7 Gender and Social Justice. 15
2.3.8 Youth Empowerment and Economic Participation. 16
2.3.9 Regional Disparities and Inclusive Development 16
2.3.10 The Role of Technology and Innovation. 16
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 19
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design. 20
3.2 Population of the Study. 21
3.3 Sample Size and Sampling Technique. 21
3.4 Instrumentation. 22
3.5 Validity and Reliability of Instruments. 22
3.6 Data Collection Procedure. 23
3.7 Methods of Data Analysis. 23
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 24
3.9 Limitations of the Study. 24
3.10 Summary. 25
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Preamble. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 26
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 32
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 46
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 47
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary of Findings. 50
5.2 Conclusion. 51
5.3 Recommendations. 52
REFERENCES. 55
APPENDICES. 59
Appendix I: Research Questionnaire: The Role of Economics Education in Promoting Economic Equity and Social Justice in Nigeria (A Case Study of Ministry of Education, Lagos). 59
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with an estimated population of 198 million (National Population Commission; NPC, 2018). According to Trading Economics' 2017 estimates (2018, cited in Otega & Okpan, 2020), the country has a gross domestic product (GDP) of US$375.77 billion, equivalent to a GDP per capita of US$2,400. According to the National Population Commission of Nigeria (NPC, 2018), the future annual population growth rate in these areas will average 6.5%. Given the rich natural and human capital in Nigeria, the country is predicted to become one of the most developed economies. However, the country is faced with several problems that affect the development of the economy. Furthermore, Nigeria has an alarming poverty index with about 54.7% of the population lacking basic necessities (Ofoche, 2012). On the other hand, several other African countries are recording impressive progress in improving infrastructure, which is attributed to good policies and leadership. Nigerians continue to express concerns about persistent economic inequalities, widespread poverty and social injustices. Economic inequality, defined by the unequal distribution of income, wealth and opportunities within a society, has become an increasingly pressing problem in recent years. While the phenomenon of economic inequality has been studied extensively, its impact on various aspects of social well-being, collectively referred to as social inequalities, is receiving increased attention as researchers, policymakers and advocates seek to understand and address the consequences of unequal economic distribution (Simangunsong et al., 2023).
The inclusion of economics education in the academic curriculum is essential for equipping citizens to address the significant economic disparities and social injustices the nation faces. In addition to imparting crucial financial literacy, this educational approach gives people the ability to support just policies and make wise financial decisions. Moreso, a more inclusive economic environment and significant social change could be achieved through the implementation of economics education that emphasizes the principles of justice and justice. By definition, economics education is a systematic effort to provide people with an understanding of basic economic concepts and how they apply to everyday life (Goyal and Kumar, 2021). The Nigerian educational framework has begun to prioritize economics education to promote a comprehensive understanding of market mechanisms, resource distribution and the impact of economic policies (Ojo, 2021). For instance, the use of examples such as income disparities and poverty in the teaching of economics will allow the students to appreciate the system that produces such situations and call for more progressive reforms to address these issues (Adeoye, 2020). Such educational focus is relevant in a nation where; inequality, at the socioeconomic level presents significant problems for development. Secondly, the subject of economics education can help in the fight for or defense of justice by sensitizing people and making them objectively analyze issues. Studies indicate that there exist links between economic education and the promotion of civic engagement and measures towards eradicating injustices in society (Ibrahim & Nwankwo, 2022). For example, knowledge regarding progressive taxation and social welfare measures enables people to defend and promote policies that benefit the needy (Onyema, 2023. It is therefore necessary for the Nigerian government to embrace these concepts in a bid to produce a generation of informed citizens who would be a social justice litigants.
Economic education's impact on social justice also includes its ability to influence the formulation of public policy. People who understand economic concepts and the importance of equity are better equipped to participate in policy discussions and help develop inclusive policies (Alabi, 2021). Such involvement is essential in a democratic setting where the welfare of all citizens is directly impacted by economic policies. Consequently, economics education becomes an essential form of advocacy that influences policy reforms and enhances awareness of the concerns of various communities (Uche, 2022).
Against this background this study seeks to examine the role of economics education in promoting economic equity and social justice in Nigeria with a specific focus on the Ministry of Education, Lagos.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The role of economics education in promoting economic equity and social justice in Nigeria is a critical issue that addresses both the theoretical and practical aspects of economic disparities in the country. Despite various economic policies aimed at reducing inequality, Nigeria continues to experience significant economic imbalances and social injustice. Economics education plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address these disparities. By fostering a deeper comprehension of economic systems, market dynamics, and policy impacts, economics education can contribute to more informed decision-making and advocacy for policies that promote equity and social justice.
According to Akinwale and Akinwale (2023), while economics education has the potential to enhance understanding and drive social change, its impact in Nigeria has been limited by a lack of comprehensive curricula that address the nuances of local economic challenges. Their study highlights that many educational programs focus predominantly on theoretical models without adequately integrating practical insights into Nigeria's unique socio-economic context. This gap in education can hinder the development of effective strategies for tackling economic inequities and can perpetuate existing social injustices. Addressing these shortcomings in economics education could lead to more targeted and effective solutions that align with the needs and realities of Nigerian society.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the role of economics education in promoting economic equity and social justice in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the current state of economics education in Nigeria, with a focus on its effectiveness in promoting economic equity and social justice.
- To examine the relationship between economics education and economic inequality in Nigeria.
- To identify effective strategies for incorporating economic equity and social justice into economics education in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the current curriculum for economics education in Nigerian primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, and how does it address issues of economic equity and social justice?
- Is there a correlation between the level of economics education in a region of Nigeria and the level of income inequality within that region?
- What are the best practices for teaching about economic equity and social justice in Nigerian classrooms, including the use of case studies, simulations, and real-world examples?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: Economics education has no significant impact on promoting economic equity and social justice in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Economics Education sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ministry of Education, Lagos. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Economic Equity
Economic equity refers to the fair distribution of wealth, resources, and opportunities among individuals in a society. In the context of Nigeria, it means ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic background, have access to economic resources and opportunities that can improve their standard of living.
2. Social Justice
Social justice is the principle of ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment and have equal access to opportunities and resources. In Nigeria, social justice involves addressing and rectifying inequalities related to income, education, health care, and other aspects of social and economic life.
3. Economics Education
Economics education is the process of teaching and learning about economic principles, theories, and practices. It encompasses understanding concepts such as supply and demand, market structures, and economic policies, and is crucial for equipping individuals with the knowledge to make informed economic decisions and advocate for equitable policies.
4. Income Inequality
Income inequality refers to the uneven distribution of income among individuals in a society. In Nigeria, this term highlights the disparities in earnings and wealth among different population groups, which can impact economic stability and social cohesion.
5. Empowerment
Empowerment involves providing individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to make decisions and take actions that enhance their economic and social well-being. In Nigeria, empowerment through economics education aims to help individuals understand and navigate economic systems to improve their economic status and contribute to broader social equity.
6. Economic Policy
Economic policy includes the strategies and actions taken by governments to manage the economy and address issues such as inflation, unemployment, and economic growth. In Nigeria, effective economic policies informed by sound economics education can promote fairer resource distribution and support social justice goals.
7. Inclusive Growth
Inclusive growth refers to economic development that benefits all segments of society, particularly marginalized and disadvantaged groups. In Nigeria, promoting inclusive growth through economics education means creating opportunities for all citizens to participate in and benefit from economic progress, thereby reducing inequality and fostering social justice.
