ADEQUATE FUNDING AND DEVELOPMENT OF BASIC EDUCATION IN THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT), ABUJA

Abstract

This chapter examined the importance of adequate funding in the development of basic education in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Basic education remains the foundation of national educational development because it equips learners with essential literacy, numeracy, social, and life skills necessary for lifelong learning and productive citizenship. Despite the strategic importance of the sector, many public basic schools within the FCT continue to experience financial challenges that affect effective teaching and learning. The chapter was undertaken to justify the need for increased investment in the basic education sector and to examine how adequate funding contributes to educational growth and quality service delivery in schools. Findings from the review revealed that adequate funding plays a significant role in the provision of school infrastructure, recruitment and retention of qualified teachers, supply of instructional materials, improvement of pupils’ academic performance, strengthening of school administration, and promotion of equal access to quality education. The chapter further revealed that schools receiving adequate financial support recorded better learning outcomes and improved educational standards compared to poorly funded schools. The chapter concluded that adequate funding is indispensable for sustainable development of basic education in the FCT. Without sufficient financial investment, many public schools may continue to experience infrastructural decay, shortage of teachers, poor instructional delivery, and declining educational quality. The chapter therefore recommended increased government allocation to education, improved monitoring of educational funds, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure effective utilization of resources in the basic education sector.