Reformative role of Fine and Applied Arts education in the alleviation of poverty, promotion of self-reliance and national development in Nigeria

Abstract

This article discusses the efficacy of Fine and Applied Arts education in the alleviation of poverty, promotion of self-reliance and national development in Nigeria. The major causes of poverty in Nigeria discussed include lack of employment, overpopulation, governmental corruption, insecurity and tax evasion by foreign corporations, with resultant effects including hunger and malnutrition, homelessness, increased crime rates, genocide, child mortality and increased numbers of HIV-related cases in society. Data were collected through oral consultations and observation of individuals with skills in Fine and Applied Arts. Findings indicated that such skilled individuals live above poverty levels. Therefore, it is concluded that acquired skills in Fine and Applied Arts will contribute significantly to the promotion of self-reliance, thereby reducing poverty levels and enhancing national development.

Notes on contributor

Fatimah M. Palmer is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Faculty of Arts, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. She has been teaching art for three decades in tertiary institutions, and is interested in social, psychological, philosophical, pedagogical and cultural issues as regards the arts. She has published two books on art as well as several journal articles.