SOCIAL STUDIES AS A TOOL FOR PEACE EDUCATION AND NAVIGATING CURRENT REALITIES IN NIGERIA
This paper examines the critical role of Social Studies education in addressing Nigeria’s contemporary challenges and fostering national development through Peace Education. It argues that Social Studies, when effectively implemented, can equip citizens with the necessary skills and understanding to navigate complex socio-economic and political realities. The paper explores how the Social Studies curriculum can be leveraged to address pressing issues such as inequality, climate change, weak governance, and social conflict, which impede Nigeria’s progress. Recognizing the importance of preparing learners for the 21st century, the study emphasizes the integration of key skills, including critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication, into Social Studies pedagogy. These skills are deemed essential for nurturing responsible and engaged citizens capable of contributing to peaceful and sustainable development. The paper advocates for transformative teaching approaches that prioritize Peace Education, promote cultural tolerance and understanding, and empower learners to effectively engage with and positively impact Nigeria’s complex social landscape. Ultimately, the paper concludes with specific recommendations for educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers to enhance Social Studies education and its contribution to peacebuilding and national development in Nigeria.
Keywords: Peace Education, Social Studies Curriculum, 21st-Century Skills, Socio-Economic Realities, National Development
