Nigerian Curriculum Risks Reinforcing Gender Stereotypes in Textbooks

Across Nigeria’s classrooms, a subtle war might be waged on young minds – a war fought with textbooks and teacher interactions that reinforce outdated gender stereotypes. While the national curriculum strives for progress, experts warn that hidden biases within its materials and teacher mindsets could be hindering both girls’ and boys’ educational journeys.

One key culprit? Textbooks. A closer look reveals a trend: story problems in mathematics textbooks often feature boys building robots or fixing cars, while girls tackle tasks related to cooking or cleaning. Language Arts passages might depict boys as adventurous explorers, while girls are portrayed as nurturing caregivers. Even visuals can be telling – illustrations might show a disproportionate number of boys engaged in physical activities or scientific experiments, while girls are relegated to domestic settings or artistic endeavors.

This bias isn’t always overt. Teachers, with the best intentions, might unconsciously steer students towards subjects traditionally associated with their gender. Imagine a math teacher – recognizing a bright student’s potential – encouraging a boy to pursue engineering, while overlooking a girl with similar aptitude.

The impact of these seemingly minor biases can be profound. Exposure to gender-biased materials can discourage girls from pursuing STEM fields or leadership roles. They might internalize the message that these areas are not meant for them, impacting their confidence and academic choices. Boys, on the other hand, may feel pressure to conform to traditional masculine roles, limiting their exploration of non-stereotypical interests and potentially restricting their personal growth and career options.

“There’s a need for a more critical examination of the curriculum materials used in our schools,” says Dr. Aisha Hassan, a gender studies professor at the University of Lagos. “We need to ensure these materials promote inclusivity and challenge outdated gender norms.”

Dr. Hassan emphasizes the importance of tackling unconscious bias among educators. “Teachers play a crucial role in shaping young minds,” she says. “Comprehensive gender sensitivity training can equip them to identify and address their own biases, fostering a more equitable learning environment for all students.”

According to a 2021 study by researchers at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s educational system grapples with the persistent issue of biased textbooks,The study, titled “Gender Bias in Educational Materials and its Impact on Gender Equality in Nigeria’s Secondary Schools,” analyzed seven widely used English Language textbooks for Junior Secondary School students.

The research revealed concerning biases that can hinder progress towards educational equity:

• Gender Stereotypes: The textbooks overwhelmingly depicted males in public spheres like politics and leadership roles, while females were relegated to the domestic sphere, portrayed primarily as mothers and wives. This reinforces traditional gender roles and limits aspirations for young girls.

• Unequal Representation: The occupations and achievements showcased in the texts were heavily skewed towards males. This lack of visibility of women in diverse fields can lead to girls undervaluing their own potential and hindering their career choices.

These findings align with a broader concern raised in a 2017 report by UNESCO. The report, titled “Gender equality in and through education in Nigeria,” acknowledges that outdated textbooks from the 1980s, containing stereotypical gender views, are still circulating in some schools. This perpetuates existing inequalities and undermines efforts to achieve gender parity in education.

Impact on the Nigerian Educational System:

The presence of biased textbooks has a ripple effect throughout the system:

• Limited Role Models: Students, particularly girls, may not find relatable role models in their textbooks. This lack of diverse representation can lead to feelings of marginalization and hinder their academic motivation.

• Teacher Bias: Teachers, influenced by biased materials, might unconsciously hold lower expectations for certain student groups. This can impact classroom interactions, grading practices, and recommendations for further education.

• Exacerbated Social inequalities: Biased textbooks can exacerbate existing social inequalities by reinforcing stereotypes about race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This creates a system that disadvantages certain groups from the outset.

Recommendations for Change:

The research by the University of Ibadan recommends several steps to address bias in Nigerian textbooks:

• Curriculum Review and Revision: A comprehensive review of educational materials to identify and rectify biases in content, representation, and language.

• Incorporating Diverse Voices: Including a wider range of authors and perspectives across disciplines to ensure a more inclusive curriculum.

• Teacher Training: Equipping educators with the skills to critically evaluate learning materials and create a classroom environment that celebrates diversity.

Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring a quality education for all Nigerian students. By fostering a more inclusive learning environment through unbiased textbooks and teacher training, Nigeria can empower its students to reach their full potential and contribute to a more equitable society.