ANALYSIS OF PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL CERTIFICATE EXAMINATIONS (SSCE)

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1      Background to the Study

Education is the fundamental instrument for development in all the countries of the world. The hopes of every country of the world to develop human capital for effective functioning of the society is hinged on education, because its an instrument of change. Education in Nigeria is an invaluable instrument of political, social, economic, scientific and technological development. Among the levels of education in Nigeria, secondary education which is the pivot of the entire educational system is fast losing its relevance which among other factors is due to unsatisfactory and poor performance of students in public examinations (Onipede, 2003). All stakeholders in Nigerian education system (parents, guardians, teachers, counselors, etc) are so much concerned about students‟ achievements and academic standard. This is probably because success in education is highly instrumental to the development of a nation, scientifically, technologically, socio-economic and political advancement and life success.