Quality Curriculum Implementation Strategies for Lecturers and Students Amidst the Rising Insecurity and Economic Hardship

Abstract

This paper examined quality curriculum implementation strategies for lecturers and students
amidst the rising insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria. It is therefore important to note
that the implementation of quality curriculum in higher institutions in Nigeria is faced with
numerous challenges, exacerbated by rising insecurity and economic hardship. This study
explores the impact of these challenges on lecturers and students, and identifies effective
strategies to navigate them. Despite efforts to improve curriculum quality, insecurity and
economic hardship hinder effective implementation, leading to compromised academic
standards and student outcomes as evident in the produce of our schools. This research
therefore provides insights into the experiences of lecturers and students, highlighting
innovative approaches to mitigate these challenges. Key strategies include collaborative
learning, technology-enhanced instruction, and community engagement. This write - up
however identified significant challenges which includes: insecurity: frequent campus attacks,
kidnappings, and violence disrupting academic activities; economic hardship: inadequate
funding, high costs of living, and poverty affecting lecturer and student well-being; poor
infrastructure: inadequate classrooms, libraries, and technology hindering effective teaching
and learning. Despite these challenges, innovative strategies emerged which includes
collaborative learning: peer-to-peer learning, group projects, and community engagement
fostering academic resilience; technology-enhanced instruction: online resources, digital
tools, and blended learning improving accessibility and engagement; community engagement:
partnerships with local organizations, industry collaborations, and outreach programs
promoting relevance and application. Recommendations include: institutional support for
lecturer training and student welfare; investment in technology and infrastructure; community
partnerships and outreach programmes and policy reforms addressing insecurity and
economic hardship.