An Appraisal of National Teachers’ Institute Programme Implementation of Mass Literacy in Nigeria

Abstract

The highest number of illiterates in Nigeria justifies, while the country is ranked high among the E-9 nations in the world for astronomical level of illiteracy. Illiteracy level differs among the various states and regions in Nigeria. Illiteracy is a critical problem to individual and national development. The realization of the highest level of illiteracy and its prevalence in the Northern region in the country, specifically, precipitated the implementation of National Teacher’s Institute Programme (NTI) with objectives to produce quality teachers, widen access to functional literacy, among others. Study therefore focuses on appraisal of NTI programme implementation of mass literacy in Nigeria. The paper giveone an insight to the illiteracy level in the country. Efforts in pre and post-colonial eras toward mass literacy promotion is also delved into. Further, the connectivity existing between the programme and mass literacy drive is also examined. Finally, some challenges that are militating against the programme and the way forwards are deeply examined.