CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAMMES AND TEACHING EFFECTIVENESS OF ECONOMICS TEACHERS IN NIGERIAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

The quality of Economics teaching in Nigerian secondary schools depends largely on the professional competence of teachers and their ability to adopt effective instructional strategies. Capacity building programmes have been identified as a vital mechanism for enhancing teachers’ knowledge, skills, and pedagogical practices. This paper examines the role of capacity building programmes in improving the teaching of Economics in Nigerian secondary schools. Using a position paper approach, the study reviews existing literature, educational policies, and professional development practices to present an informed argument on the importance of continuous capacity building for Economics teachers. The paper argues that capacity building programmes enhance subject matter mastery, pedagogical skills, use of instructional materials, assessment techniques, and teacher motivation. Despite challenges such as inadequate funding, limited access to training opportunities, and poor implementation, the study concludes that well-structured and sustained capacity building programmes are essential for improving the quality of Economics education and students’ learning outcomes in Nigerian secondary schools.