EDUCATION AS A LAUNCHPAD TOWARDS ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA: AN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Education is widely seen as one of the most powerful tools for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in developing countries like Nigeria where social and economic inequalities remain significant. This paper explores how education can serve as a practical starting point or launchpad for achieving the SDGs when viewed through the lens of inclusive education. Drawing on recent global and Nigerian studies (2020–present), it examines how access to equitable and quality education (SDG 4) connects with broader development goals such as reducing poverty, promoting gender equality, and fostering social inclusion. The review shows that while many scholars agree on the strong potential of inclusive education to drive sustainable development, there are clear differences in how effectively it is implemented, particularly in low-resource settings. In Nigeria, challenges such as insufficient teacher training, poor infrastructure, cultural attitudes, and weak policy implementation continue to limit progress. The paper also highlights key gaps, including difficulties in assessing inclusive learning outcomes, limited use of indigenous knowledge, and unequal access to digital learning tools. It concludes by suggesting practical ways to strengthen inclusive education and identifies key areas for future research and policy improvement.