By OGUNBOWALE, Tolulope Sobiye

What should school feel like for a child? A place of fear or a place of excitement? A place where children count the hours until closing time or a place they look forward to every morning? Sadly, many children in Nigerian schools no longer enjoy learning the way they should. School has become stressful for some, while learning feels like a task instead of an adventure. This is a wake-up call for all of us. It is time to bring back the joy of learning.

Learning is meant to be exciting. Every child is naturally curious. Children ask questions, love stories, enjoy discovering new things, and feel proud when they understand something for the first time. That excitement should grow in school, not disappear. When children enjoy learning, they pay attention, participate in class, remember lessons better and become more confident.

So, what has taken away the joy of learning? One major reason is the pressure to pass

examinations. Many students study only to score marks, not to understand what they are

learning. Some classrooms are overcrowded, making it difficult for teachers to give every child attention. Others face bullying, harsh discipline, poor learning facilities or lack of books and teaching materials. These challenges make school less enjoyable for many learners.

The good news is that this can change.

Teachers have a special role in restoring the joy of learning. A caring teacher can change a child's life. Children learn better when they feel loved, respected and encouraged. A smile, kind words or praise for a small improvement can build a child's confidence. Every child deserves a teacher who believes in them, even when they struggle.

Teaching should also be lively and interesting. Lessons do not have to be boring. Stories, songs, games, role plays, group work, simple experiments and real-life examples can make learning easier and more enjoyable. When students are involved in the lesson, they become active learners instead of silent listeners.

Parents also have an important part to play. Learning should continue at home in simple ways.

Reading with children, asking about their school day, helping with homework and celebrating

effort instead of only good grades can make a big difference. Children feel more motivated when they know their parents value their small efforts.

Schools should also create an environment where every child feels safe. A child who is afraid of being laughed at or punished for making mistakes may stop asking questions. Mistakes are part of learning. Instead of fear, schools should promote kindness, respect, patience and

understanding.

Another way to restore the joy of learning is by encouraging reading. Books open children's

minds and help them imagine, think and dream. Schools can organise reading clubs, storytelling sessions, spelling bees, debates and writing competitions. These activities help children see reading as something enjoyable, not as punishment.

Technology can also make learning more interesting when it is used wisely. Educational videos, learning apps, and digital tools can help students understand difficult topics in simple ways. Even where technology is limited, teachers can still use creative methods and locally available materials to make lessons practical and fun.

Government and school owners also have responsibilities. Children learn better in clean

classrooms with good furniture, libraries, laboratories and enough learning materials. Teachers also need regular training, support, and motivation so they can give their best in the classroom.

There is an African saying that it takes a village to raise a child. In the same way, it takes

teachers, parents, school leaders, communities and government to build schools where children love to learn. Everyone has a role to play.

When learning becomes joyful again, children will not only pass examinations; they will develop confidence, creativity and a love for knowledge that stays with them for life. They will ask questions without fear, dream without limits, and grow into responsible adults who can contribute to society.

Restoring the joy of learning in Nigerian schools is not just about improving education. It is

about giving every child hope, confidence, and a brighter future. When children are happy to

learn, everyone wins, the family, the school and the nation.

•Ogunbowale, Tolulope Sobiye can be reached via favour0405@gmail.com