Students in Nigeria face an overwhelming academic burden, with long school hours and excessive homework stretching their mental and physical limits. From early morning assemblies to late afternoon dismissals, followed by hours of homework and private lessons, students barely have time to rest. The intense workload is further exacerbated by the exploitative fees charged by many private schools, which promise superior Education but often prioritise profit over student well-being. As a result, students are caught in a relentless cycle of academic pressure, leaving them exhausted and disengaged from learning.
Moreover, the length of school hours in Nigeria has become a major concern, particularly in private institutions where students are required to stay in school for as long as nine hours daily. Public schools are not exempt, as many of them also extend learning hours to compensate for Curriculum deficiencies. After these long hours, students are often expected to attend extra lessons, either organised by their schools or arranged privately by parents who fear their children will fall behind. This schedule leaves little room for leisure, personal development, or even adequate rest, leading to chronic fatigue and diminished enthusiasm for learning.
Heavy homework could affect students’ well-being.
Excessive homework further compounds the strain on students, often leaving them with little time for personal or family interactions. Assignments are frequently given in large volumes, sometimes across multiple subjects, without consideration for a child’s need for rest. Many students spend their evenings buried in textbooks and exercise books, struggling to complete tasks before bedtime, only to wake up early for another long school day. This non-stop academic routine affects not only their physical health but also their mental well-being, increasing stress levels and diminishing their capacity to absorb knowledge effectively. Parents, too, bear the burden, as they often have to assist with complex assignments after their own long workdays, adding to their stress and limiting quality family time.
Amid this academic pressure, exploitative school fees add another layer of hardship for many families. Private schools, which dominate Nigeria’s education sector, impose exorbitant fees that often do not match the quality of education provided. Many schools charge additional levies for textbooks, uniforms, extra lessons, and even basic facilities like Electricity and water. Despite these high costs, students are still subjected to overwhelming workloads, leaving parents questioning whether they are getting value for their money. Public schools, while more affordable, often suffer from underfunding, forcing parents to enrol their children in private institutions despite the financial strain.
Many children view education as an overwhelming burden.
Furthermore, the consequences of this excessive academic pressure are evident in students’ declining enthusiasm for learning. Many children view education as a burden rather than an opportunity for intellectual growth. Instead of fostering curiosity and creativity, the rigid structure of long school hours and heavy homework stifles independent thinking. Cases of burnout are common, with some students developing anxiety and other stress-related issues. Also, the limited time for recreational activities deprives them of essential social skills and creative expression, both of which are crucial for holistic development.
Reforming Nigeria’s education system requires a shift from quantity to quality. Schools should focus on creating a balanced learning environment that prioritises both academic excellence and student well-being. Reducing school hours, moderating homework, and integrating more interactive and engaging teaching methods can help students retain knowledge more effectively. Policymakers must also regulate school fees to prevent institutions from exploiting parents while failing to provide the promised educational value. A more balanced approach will not only ease the burden on students but also improve the overall quality of education in Nigeria.
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Without urgent reforms, the current system will continue to drain students both mentally and physically, producing individuals who see education as an exhausting obligation rather than a fulfilling journey. Nigerian students deserve an academic structure that nurtures their intellectual capabilities without sacrificing their health and well-being. Education should be a tool for empowerment, not a source of endless pressure and exploitation. Creating a more student-friendly approach will not only benefit learners but also contribute to a more innovative and productive society in the long run.