Conflict in the Classroom: Educational Institutions as Sites of Religious Tolerance/Tntolerance in Nigeria

Abstract

In Nigeria, black Africa's most populous nation, it might be expected that education would be a contentious issue in terms of its provision, control, form and content. This paper discusses the ways in which educational institutions - whether primary, secondary or tertiary - have been connected to the growth of religious conflict in Nigeria over the last 2 decades. It is questioned how Nigerian schools and institutions of higher learning constitute sites for generating or countering religious intolerance. The history of religious education in Nigeria is examined, focusing primarily on primary and secondary schools, The paper also discusses the role student organizations have played in shaping religious education discourse and policy along with religious education in the universities. Specific examples of religious conflict in the realm of education are presented.