Utilization Of French Graduates In Secondary Schools In Makurdi Local Government Area Of Benue State Of Nigeria

Abstract

Much has been said about the need for French or the reason why French should be taught in Nigeria. French is a modern language that is spoken, written and used like all the other world's modern languages. Despite its importance, It is unfortunate that the wide use of French has often been overlooked by Nigerians hem even some highly educated ones are not sufficiently informed about it's usefulness. The need for the teaching of French Language therefore cannot be over emphasized if Nigeria is to take it's rightful position in the world of developed nations. This study which is descriptive nature looked at the extent to which French graduates are been utilized. The participants comprised Thirty-five French Language graduates in 13 secondary schools in Benue State. Ten principals of secondary schools were also interviewed. Some questions were raised to guide the study and data was analysed using frequency and simple percentages. The analysis revealed that French graduates in Benue State secondary schools were made to teach other subjects other than French. The study also revealed that secondary school principals do not include French subject in their school's time table and even when they include it, they do not assign enough number of periods to it. It was therefore recommended that Educational managers need to be educated on the need for French in Nigeria. Government should also take adequate steps to motivate the teacher and the learner so that a lot of progress could be achieved as we reap the full benefits of improved teaching of French.

Keywords: French teachers, French Language, Nigerian schools, Benue State,
Utilization.

Journal of Technology and Education in Nigeria Vol. 12 (2) 2007: pp. 40-44