Establishment and Early Growth

The Department of Arts and Social Science Education was established during the 2012/2013 academic session. Its founding was a response to the growing need for high-quality educators in Nigeria, especially in the fields of Political Science, Economics, and English Language education. From its inception, the department set out to offer programs that would produce graduates not only capable of teaching but also of contributing to the intellectual, cultural, and social development of the nation.

In its early years, the department launched two flagship programs: the Bachelor of Science Education (B.Sc. Ed) and the Bachelor of Arts in Education (B.A. Ed), specializing in Political Science, Economics, and English Education. These programs were designed to prepare educators who could teach these critical subjects at the secondary and tertiary levels.

Expansion and Diversification of Programs

As the department grew, it recognized the need to expand its offerings to meet the evolving educational landscape. During the 2020/2021 academic session, the department introduced a B.Sc. Ed in Social Studies, reflecting its commitment to broadening its scope and addressing the demand for educators in the arts and social sciences. The addition of Social Studies was a significant step in the department’s mission to produce well-rounded educators who could teach interdisciplinary subjects, crucial for the understanding of social dynamics and civic responsibilities.

By the 2021/2022 academic session, the department had expanded further by offering postgraduate programs in Political Science, Economics, and English Education. This initiative opened new pathways for graduates who sought to specialize or pursue academic careers in these fields. The department’s continuous growth reflects its dedication to remaining relevant and responsive to the demands of the educational sector in Nigeria and beyond.

Leadership and Vision

The success of the Department of Arts and Social Science Education can be attributed to the visionary leadership that has guided its development. The department has been led by a series of accomplished and committed Heads of Department (HODs), who have ensured that it maintains its high standards of academic and professional excellence. The past and current HODs include:

1. Rev. Fr. Dr. Wenceslaus N. Ofojebe (2012-2013) – The department’s pioneer HOD, who laid the foundation for its academic structure and set the tone for future growth.
2. Prof. Ifeoma Obi (2013-2015) – Expanded the department’s focus on research and professional development.
3. Dr. Stella Ezeaku (2015-2017) – Led curriculum improvements and fostered a culture of academic inquiry.
4. Prof. Glady Uzoechina (2017-2021) – Overseen significant growth in student enrollment and the introduction of new academic programs.
5. Dr. Choice C. Okaforcha (2021-2024) – Emphasized student engagement and the department’s role in community development.
6. Dr. Patricia I. Adinna (2024-present) – The current HOD, focusing on academic innovation and fostering partnerships with educational institutions.

Achievements and Milestones

Since its establishment, the Department of Arts and Social Science Education has made remarkable strides in both academic excellence and institutional development. Some of its major achievements include:

1. Successful Graduates – Since 2013, the department has produced over 400 graduates who are making significant contributions to the Nigerian education sector. These graduates are not only teachers but also leaders in educational policy, curriculum development, and educational consultancy.
2. Accreditation and Recognition – The department has consistently maintained full accreditation status, a testament to its dedication to academic quality and compliance with national standards. Accreditation assures that the department’s programs are rigorously evaluated and meet the expectations of educational and professional bodies.
3. Postgraduate Expansion – The introduction of postgraduate programs in Political Science, Economics, and English Education in the 2021/2022 academic session was a key milestone. These programs have enabled the department to cater to students interested in advanced studies, ensuring that they receive the training needed for specialized careers in education and academia.
4. Increased Research Output – The department has consistently contributed to research in arts and social sciences education. Faculty members are actively involved in academic conferences, seminars, and workshops both locally and internationally, thereby enhancing the university’s academic profile.
5. Community Engagement and Development – The department has played a vital role in community outreach programs, particularly in training teachers and educators in rural areas. By equipping educators with the latest pedagogical skills, the department helps to improve educational standards in underserved regions.

Mission and Philosophy

The Department of Arts and Social Science Education is driven by a mission to produce educators who possess the right attitude, knowledge, and competence to effectively teach and inspire students. It aims to develop self-reliant and entrepreneurial graduates who are capable of addressing the challenges of the modern world. The department’s core mission is to:

1. Prepare Competent and Compassionate Educators – The department focuses on developing educators who are not only knowledgeable but also empathetic and capable of fostering inclusive and engaging learning environments.
2. Promote Research and Innovation – The department encourages both students and faculty to engage in research that advances the field of education and addresses societal needs. Innovation in teaching methodologies is central to the department’s approach.
3. Foster Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills – The department’s programs are designed to instill critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in students, preparing them for leadership roles in education.

The department’s philosophy emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, encouraging students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world educational challenges. It believes in producing educators who can adapt to changing educational environments and who are committed to lifelong learning.

Admission Requirements and Programs

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Arts and Social Science Education offers robust undergraduate programs designed to equip students with both the theoretical and practical knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields. The department offers the following undergraduate degrees:

– B.A. Ed in English Education

– B.Sc. Ed in Political Science Education

– B.Sc. Ed in Economics Education

– B.Sc. Ed in Social Studies Education

Admission Requirements:

– Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE)/West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE)/NABTEB – Candidates must have a minimum of five credit passes in subjects relevant to their chosen field, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings.

– Direct Entry – Candidates with relevant National Certificates in Education (NCE) or Advanced Level qualifications may apply for direct entry into the department’s programs.

Postgraduate Programs

The department offers a range of postgraduate programs aimed at deepening students’ expertise and preparing them for leadership roles in the educational sector. These include:

– M.Ed in Political Science Education

– M.Ed in Economics Education

– M.A. Ed in English Education

Postgraduate Admission Requirements:

– A good first degree (minimum of Second Class Lower) in a related field from a recognized university.

– For M.Ed and M.A. Ed programs, candidates must also have relevant teaching or professional experience in education.

Faculty and Research Interests

The Department of Arts and Social Science Education prides itself on its team of experienced and dedicated faculty members who are actively engaged in teaching, research, and community service. The faculty’s diverse academic backgrounds contribute to the department’s multidisciplinary approach to education.

The current Head of Department, Dr. Patricia I. Adinna, is a Senior Lecturer with a Ph.D. in Education. Her research interests include curriculum development, educational technology, and the assessment of learning outcomes. Other notable faculty members include:

– Dr. Choice C. Okaforcha – Senior Lecturer specializing in Science Education and Educational Policy.

– Dr. Stella Ezeaku – Lecturer I, with expertise in Social Studies Education and Gender Studies.

Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Vision

The Department of Arts and Social Science Education is committed to continuous improvement and growth. Its future goals include:

1. Expanding Curriculum Offerings – The department plans to introduce new programs in areas such as Educational Technology and Comparative Education, ensuring that it stays relevant in a rapidly changing educational landscape.
2. Enhancing Digital Literacy – Recognizing the growing importance of digital tools in education, the department aims to integrate digital literacy and e-learning into its curriculum, preparing students for the future of education.
3. Strengthening Community Partnerships – The department is keen on forging stronger relationships with educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies to enhance community engagement and improve educational standards in Nigeria.
4. Fostering Global Competencies – The department is focused on equipping its students with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world. It aims to prepare graduates who can compete on the international stage, whether in academia, policy-making, or educational consultancy.