Functional rural education: The path to social justice and true democracy in Nigeria

The paper views social justice and democracy as inseparable concepts. Social justice is conceived as the accessibility of all citizens to opportunities for a dignified life (adequate food, shelter, medical care, and political and economic participation among others). Focus is on the spread of these opportunities to a majority of the population who live in the rural areas and are effectively excluded. And the status quo is maintained by lack of access to quality education which is the main ladder to social mobility. It is noted that there is a widespread misconception of democracy due to ignorance and illiteracy, and by being interpreted through a wide diversity of cultures that constitute the Nigerian socio-political space. The paper further notes that what obtains in Nigeria today may be termed ‘civilian dictatorship’ and that without any political culture evolving at the grassroots, the ability of the majority to demand for social justice and accountability from the state would be severely compromised. It is concluded that only an urgent rural-focused educational reform programme would redress the situation. Suggestions are proffered as to the character of the reform.