In Nigeria today there are so many primary old schools you don’t know about, and you might want to probably know one of the oldest primary school In Nigeria, and also the education of then is now different from the education we have now. The oldest primary school In Nigeria is located in Badagry where it was established during the British colonial period. In this article we will delve into the history of the oldest primary school In Nigeria and if you have been wondering or in search of the oldest primary school In Nigeria then this article is meant for you. Read also: Top 10 Cheapest Polytechnics In Nigeria
History Of The Oldest Primary School In Nigeria
The oldest primary school in Nigeria is St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School, located in Badagry. Founded by the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in 1845, Established during the British colonial period, St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School.
This primary school was established with the aim of giving education to the youth around the badagry axis and as served as a conerstone in the early development of formal education in Nigeria. The school was set up by foreign missionaries in the town of Badagry and was named the Nursery of Infant Church which was renamed as St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and primary school by Rev. Golmer of the Church Missionary Society (CMS).
Before the arrival of Christian and during the colonial period, there was a language between the local people and colonial masters which was hard to understand and led to conflicts between them. Due to the language barrier between the local and the colonial, they set up this school in other to solve the problems.
The school started at a first storey building in Nigeria and was later moved to Topo Badagry which is the current location now, and the old primary school still remains till date.
The school classrooms were built to contain around 30 pupils each and has a huge number of students and a few study halls for the students. After this primary school has been established, this gave room to other primary schools to be established In Nigeria. The Anglican Church and Baptist Church became the pillar and started improving education in by building schools in many areas In Nigeria.
Over the years, the school expanded to meet the needs of the community and became a hub not only for academic learning but also for ethnic, values and cultures. The school’s impact extended beyond the classroom, shaping the character and outlook of its students. St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and primary school was one of the school that witnessed the changes that the Nigerian education has undergone and it played a role of laying the educational foundations of Nigeria.
About The Location Of The Oldest Primary School In Nigeria
St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School can be founded in the town of Badagry, in the southwestern part of Nigeria. Badagry stands a place in Nigeria’s history as it was a center for trade, education, and cultural exchange during the pre-colonial and colonial periods. Badagry is a town of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Badagry was one of the centers of slave trade during the 18th and 19th centuries and its town’s history is said to be a tragic legacy of the slave trade. Visitors going to Badagry can explore the Slave Route and the Badagry Heritage Museum, which makes people sad about their dark chapter in history.
Badagry is home to the oldest primary school in Nigeria, St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School, that reflects the town’s commitment to education and also a home to the first storey building in Nigeria, Built by the missionaries in the mid-19th century, the building has been kept as a historical landmark and an evidence to the early efforts of Christian missionaries in education and religion.
Badagry boast of their vibrant cultural heritage. The town is home to various ethnic groups, including the Awori and the Gbe-speaking communities, which have contributed to its diverse and rich cultural tapestry. Outsiders/ visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and art, as well as local festivals and ceremonies that celebrate this cultural diversity.
Badagry are known for their warm hospitality that Visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms and have the opportunity to engage with the town’s friendly and inviting residents.
Badagry has become so popular and has made them the destination of tourists and locals. Badagry town also was known as the ‘point of no return.’ Where there is an exit port for exporting slaves from the country.
Conclusion
St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School in Badagry, has given educational experience and opportunities that encourage a broader range in education. The history of the school played a role in providing education to generations of young learners, with the skills and knowledge for personal growth and progress. The school has values and ethics, leaving an history mark on the character of its students. And Badagry as the first town to which a school was built involving students in a cultural and historical life.
