PAINTING EDUCATION IN NIGERIA SCHOOLS: NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND EXPLORING FRESH REALITIES

Abstract

This study explores the complex challenges and emerging opportunities in painting as a specialized skill in education in Nigeria. In the face of economic instability, the quality of education, particularly in painting, is affected. This impacts graduates' employability and their embedded potential influence on national development. The study employs a descriptive survey research design, focusing on painting students at the Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka. A simple random sampling technique was employed to select thirty respondents as a representative sample. To guide the study, three (3) research questions were analyzed by the author in line with the stated objectives of the study. A primary and secondary source of data were utilized. The data used employed the mean and simple percentage. It identifies key obstacles to painting as a cause of study and career as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient studio equipment, a lack of scholarship opportunities, and limited integration of digital technologies. Using the Resources and Appropriation Theory (RAT) model by van Dijk, the research highlights the potential of technological literacy and ICT integration to transform art education by fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. The findings stress the need to address infrastructural shortcomings and advocate for comprehensive support from stakeholders. The study also emphasizes the importance of adapting to new realities by incorporating artificial intelligence, digital tools, and pedagogical digitalization to create a more resilient and forward-looking art education system. The research concludes with specific recommendations to improve the educational landscape. This includes upgrading studio facilities, increasing government support, providing better access to scholarships, and promoting technological literacy among students and educators.