Needs assessment for implementation of addiction science courses in Nigerian tertiary educational institutions: prospects and challenges

Authors

1.Dr. Samuel Dakwak (⚑ Nigeria) 1

1. UNIVERSITY OF JOS

Abstract

Substance abuse and addiction pose significant challenges to public health, necessitating a comprehensive understanding and effective response with a multidisciplinary approach. This study aimed to contribute a scholarly perspective to the discourse on addiction science education in Nigeria and examines the existing educational infrastructure, faculty expertise, and available resources to identify gaps and regulatory frameworks, both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It utilized a mixed-methods approach to integrate data from quantitative and qualitative methodologies to ascertain the existing gaps and potential challenges and analyze the current landscape and prospects of addiction science education within the country’s universities.

Empirical data were obtained in survey and stakeholder consultations with educators, university administrators, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders purposively selected from 15 universities across the 3 regions of the country. It garners diverse perspectives on the current state of addiction-related education, treatment and the development and implementation of addiction science courses into the academic curriculum of tertiary educational institutions.

Results show lack of qualified manpower, inadequate infrastructure, resource availability deficits, delays in approval by regulatory bodies, disruptions in academic calendar(s), paucity of teaching equipment, and the need to introduce certified programs. The needs assessment outcome advocates for implementation of curricula that enriches academic offerings and empowers future professionals to contribute to the mitigation of substance abuse issues that align with global standards in addiction science.