An Assessment of the Rescue Mission Policy in Mitigating Educational Challenges in Taraba State (2015-2018).

Abstract

The advancement of any nation relies extensively on the effective implementation of appropriate education policies. However, this important variable is grossly neglected in many African countries, including Nigeria. The case of Taraba State is very glaring. The education segment of the state is characterized by incessant industrial actions by teachers/lecturers, low funding, inadequate staffing (both in quantity and quality), lack of advanced teaching aids, inadequacy to deteriorating state of infrastructures, lack of internet facilities to aid research, ill-equipped libraries and the lack of conducive learning environment. The primary objective of this study therefore, is to appraise the success or otherwise of the Rescue Agenda of Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku’s administration from 2015-2018 on education. For a better understanding of the subject matter, this study is anchored on the system theory of Public Policy propounded by David Easton (1965). Findings from the study reveal that, while the Rescue Mission has tried in mitigating some challenges at the primary and post primary levels, higher institutions in the state have remained impoverished in all ramifications. The study therefore recommend some measures for mitigating the glaring challenges confronting, particularly, tertiary educational institutions in the state.