Classical Studies in Nigerian Adult Education: Designing Lifelong Learning Programmes for Community Engagement

Classical learning has historically been confined in Nigeria to elite formal educational institutions, limiting its potential as a resource for community intellectual development, civic engagement, and cultural literacy among adult non-specialist audiences. This study designs and evaluates a Classical Studies lifelong learning programme for adult community audiences in Nigeria, piloted in three communities across Rivers, Kano, and Benue States. A community programme development methodology was adopted, beginning with community needs assessment consultations with 60 adult community members in Port Harcourt, Kano metropolis, and Makurdi, followed by programme design drawing on classical adult education principles (Andragogy), the UK Open University's liberal arts model, and the Pan African Classical Studies initiative. Programme design emphasised accessibility, cultural relevance, and connection with local traditions. The programme encompasses eight modules delivered through community centres, libraries, and adult education centres, covering Greek and Roman storytelling, classical philosophy for everyday life, the history of ideas from Athens to Lagos, classical art appreciation, and ancient environmental thinking. Pilot delivery to 90 adult participants across the three locations showed strong engagement, with 82 percent completing all modules and 91 percent reporting increased confidence in engaging with formal cultural and intellectual discourse. The study recommends scaling the programme through the National Teachers Institute Adult Education Division and collaboration with state library boards.

Keywords: adult education, lifelong learning, Classical Studies, community engagement, Nigeria