Education specialists and child development experts have called for an expansion of extracurricular programs in schools across Nigeria, emphasizing their role in promoting holistic learning and nurturing critical skills among students. The recommendations were made during a conference held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in Lagos, which brought together educators, policymakers, and development practitioners.
According to the experts, traditional classroom instruction, while essential, is insufficient to fully equip children with social, cognitive, and emotional competencies. They highlighted that extracurricular activities—ranging from sports and arts to debate clubs and community service initiatives—provide avenues for students to develop leadership, creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
During the session, Dr. Amina Yusuf, an education consultant, noted, “Holistic education is not only about academic achievement; it is about cultivating well-rounded individuals who can think critically and contribute meaningfully to society. Schools must create structures that allow children to explore multiple talents and interests beyond the classroom.”
The conference also emphasized the importance of ensuring that these programs are accessible to children from all socio-economic backgrounds. Experts suggested partnerships between schools, local communities, and private organizations to fund and sustain extracurricular initiatives, ensuring that children in under-resourced areas have the same opportunities as their peers in more privileged schools.
Participants stressed that integrating holistic learning programs can positively impact students’ mental health, reduce behavioral issues, and improve overall academic performance. By engaging in diverse activities, children gain exposure to practical skills that complement theoretical knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
Policymakers in attendance urged state and federal education authorities to incorporate extracurricular frameworks into school curricula, backed by adequate funding, teacher training, and performance assessment metrics. They argued that these measures will help create more resilient, adaptable, and socially responsible young citizens.
The event concluded with a call for ongoing research to evaluate the effectiveness of extracurricular initiatives in fostering holistic development, ensuring that programs are evidence-based and aligned with best practices globally. Experts agreed that sustained commitment from schools, families, and government is critical to achieving meaningful outcomes.
