British Council calls for improved teaching standards in Nigeria

The British Council has urged stakeholders to intensify efforts to improve the quality of teaching and learning in Nigerian schools, emphasising that access to education alone is insufficient without better learning outcomes. Speaking in Abuja at the British Council Action Research Grants event, the country director, Donna McGowan, said meaningful school improvement should be guided […]

The British Council has urged stakeholders to intensify efforts to improve the quality of teaching and learning in Nigerian schools, emphasising that access to education alone is insufficient without better learning outcomes.

Speaking in Abuja at the British Council Action Research Grants event, the country director, Donna McGowan, said meaningful school improvement should be guided by evidence, research and realities within classrooms rather than assumptions.

She explained that the Action Research Grants initiative places teachers and school leaders at the centre of educational reform by equipping them to tackle challenges in their schools through practical solutions.

“It empowers educators to: Identify real classroom challenges, test practical solutions, measure impact, and share learning with peers. Some of the most powerful education reforms begin with small, locally driven innovations inside schools,” she said.

McGowan noted that the programme, a global initiative, enables teachers to investigate and address issues that are relevant to their immediate educational environments.

“As the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, the British Council is uniquely positioned to support global education. Through British Council Partner Schools, we offer unparalleled operational and educational support to a network of over 2,600 schools across 40 countries – with over 400 in Nigeria alone,” she added.

One of the beneficiaries, Chinedu Okoro of Olumawu School, Abuja, said his research focused on using mindfulness-based workshops to reduce academic stress and improve concentration among students aged 11 to 17.

According to him, breathing exercises and yoga sessions were introduced to address concerns over students’ mental health.

“Findings show that 94.4% of students reported reduced stress and better time management, while 88.9% said the techniques helped them manage academic pressure,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Delta State-based mathematics educator Innocent Katule, examined how Continuous Professional Development interventions could help tackle mathematics anxiety among learners.

“Teachers showed increased confidence and competence in addressing Maths phobia. There was improved use of active learning strategies, differentiated instruction, and technology integration,” he said.

Head of Market, British Council Nigeria, Eyitayo Akanji, stressed that strengthening teachers’ capacity and providing support for both educators and learners are essential to improving standards. Each beneficiary received £2,500 to implement their projects.