Learning in a pandemic: Nigeria’s response to teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic

The aims of the study were to analyse the responses to learning of key education stakeholders in Nigeria (supply side) and understand the adoption of learning alternatives by students and parents (demand side) in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent restriction of movement across Nigeria. The study identified that significant activities which support learning continued during the pandemic. Teachers and parents provided ongoing learning support to students through e-learning, social and traditional media platforms. The accessibility and affordability of technological or internet enabled devices, as well as poor electricity supply were also identified as challenges limiting efficient learning. In spite of these challenges, opportunities to change the pre-COVID-19 status quo in the education space were highlighted. These opportunities are being maximized through innovative stakeholder partnerships that are promoting accelerated digital skills acquisition, blended learning experiences for students and teacher development. Key recommendations - from the study results - have been outlined. These recommendations include the prioritisation of teacher development and well-being, the provision of support for parents and the availability of infrastructure for remote teaching and learning.