Social Mobility and Education in Nigeria: A Critical Appraisal

Dr Josephine Azuka Onyido, Mrs Doris Ijeoma Duru

Department of Educational Foundations, Faculty of Education, University of Port-harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author: Dr Josephine Azuka Onyido

ABSTRACT

Education acts as a mechanism for upward social mobility and the key in determining the extent of mobility an individual cam aspire in society thus, the correlation between education and social mobility cannot be over-emphasized and it is in the light of this background that this paper looks at conceptual clarification of pertinent issues namely- education, functions of education, Social mobility, Factors affecting social mobility, relationship between education and social mobility in Nigeria. The researchers identified that in Nigeria, education leads to upward social mobility. Although, there are other means by which individuals can move to one level or the other in the social stratum, education is the most important tool for advancement, this importance encourages and provides theoretical evidence for students as well as policy makers in stimulating social mobility. It was recommended amongst others that Government should provide employment opportunities for graduates, and that those in authority should shun nepotism and corruption In order for every individual to have equal opportunities to experience upward social mobility. Above all the paper concludes that education does not only help a person in acquiring knowledge but it is also a passport for occupational position for higher prestige. This paper therefore is beneficial to the reading populace as it highlights the importance and impact of education to social mobility.

Key words: Education, Social Mobility Appraisal, Nigeria

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