Evaluating Music Extracurricular Activities in Promoting Social Skills Among Secondary School Students in Oyo State

This study evaluates the effectiveness of music extracurricular activities in promoting social skills among secondary school students in Oyo State, South West Nigeria. Research consistently identifies participation in group music activities such as school choirs, bands, and music clubs as an important context for developing social competencies including cooperation, empathy, communication, and conflict resolution. This research investigates the extent to which music extracurricular programmes in selected secondary schools in Ibadan contribute to measurable improvements in students' social skills. A quasi-experimental design is adopted, with 120 students from four secondary schools divided into a music participation group and a non-participation control group matched for age and grade. Social skills are assessed using a validated Social Skills Rating System adapted for Nigerian secondary school contexts, administered at baseline and after one academic term of music participation. Teachers also complete observational rating forms. Qualitative data from student focus group discussions provide depth to quantitative findings. The study draws on music education research, social development theory, and extracurricular activity literature from sub-Saharan Africa. Findings will provide evidence-based support for the inclusion and funding of music extracurricular programmes in secondary school development plans across the South West zone. Keywords: Music extracurricular, social skills, secondary school, Oyo State, student development.