The Role of Teacher Qualification and Experience in Curriculum Implementation in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and the Way Forward

Abstract

Curriculum implementation is a critical stage in the educational process, particularly in Nigeria. This paper examines the roles of teacher qualification and teaching experience in Nigeria, drawing on human capital theory, systems theory, and constructivist learning theory with emphasis on Nigerian contexts, the paper defines key concepts, reviews relevant concepts, identifies challenges, and proposes strategies for strengthening teacher preparation and curriculum delivery. Evidences from available relevant literature showed that professionally qualified and experienced teachers implement curricula more effectively than their less qualified or inexperienced counterparts. Challenges include inadequate teacher training, out-of-field teaching, insufficient professional development, and uneven distribution of experienced teachers. The ways forward include enhancing teacher education, expanding professional development, improving teacher deployment, and ensuring policy coherence.