Oluwadimimu, Mercy Titilope
University of Lagos, Nigeria
It is said that those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. It is extremely important for the younger generation to be well informed about the past happenings in their countries. This is so they are well informed to make better choices as individuals and as a nation.
History as the name implies is meant to teach people about past events and happenings which in one way or the other has shaped the reality we live in today.
As we may all know, History has recently made a comeback into the school curriculum after over 15 years of its eviction. It was initially removed in 2007 as part of a new policy known as the New Basic Education Curriculum but it was officially eliminated from the basic education curriculum in 2009 by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) during the 2009/2010 academic session. The subject was then merged into social studies.
Why was it removed?
Well, it was said that students found the subject boring. They also avoided it due to limited job opportunities for History graduates and a shortage of qualified History teachers.
Of course, the federal government’s actions were widely criticized by scholars, educators, historians and other stakeholders.
Why is history so important?
Imagine waking up one day and you’re diagnosed with amnesia. You have no recollection of your memories. Your identity. What makes you you. I bet it’s a feeling of utter loss and lack of purpose. That is exactly what a country is without its history. A country without its history lacks direction and purpose. It’s like trying to find your way without a map. That’s what we’re in for if we do not properly teach our children our history.
For instance, the generation of people who experienced the Biafra war will all be dead within the next decade. If these events are not well documented and taught to the younger ones, the cultural, social and economic relevance of such an event begins to fade. There will come a time when no one remembers the details of the war, the lives it claimed and what it cost us as a nation.
History also requires proper documentation and story telling. This is where professional historians and history teachers are pertinent. Although, they seem to be dwindling in their numbers each year in Nigeria.
Historians are one of the most treasured and well protected people in the olden days. This is because these kingdoms and dynasties understood the place of history in a country. It was understood that they’re the preservers of truth, culture and stories.
Most modern issues we face today are as a result of things that has happened years back. History helps us to understand the context of these situations better. They also inform decision making as it offers insight into current laws and traditions. History also tells us about the past, which facilitates our understanding of the present which will in turn inform our future. Although the past defines and shapes the present, you also have the power to shape your future much differently due to lessons from your past.
History is important because it makes us a better informed citizen of the country. It promotes one’s personal identity and national consciousness. It also fosters critical thinking in students. They grow up to be well informed, politically conscious and forward minded adults.
Finally, It is important to tell our own stories. If we don’t, others will do it for us- in ways that may not benefit us. History is a subject that should capture one’s attention. It is never a boring subject when taught properly by well trained and qualified teachers. History is not only taught through textbooks, it is taught through documentaries, film, story books and so on.
Most times, history is overlooked as an unnecessary subject. The day we start to neglect the lessons of the past is the day we begin to fail.
….“Children are the leaders of tomorrow” so long this sentence remains true, history should always have a place in the school curriculum .
