EXPLORATION OF THE CLASS STRUGGLE AND THE NIGERIAN SCHOOL SYSTEM IMAGE OF A STRATIFIED SOCIETY

Abstract

The concept of class was propounded by Marx (1883) in Haralambos and, Holborns (2008) who
employed it, in one of his theory to describe the degree of exploitation perpetrated by the ruling
class, called the capitalist (Bourgeoisie) against the serf or laborers in the bid to maximize profit
(Marx, 1883; Payne, 2006). This act is still evident in the Nigerian School system, in which the
status and class determines the quality and quantity of learning made available to learners. The
Nigerian school system has passed through series of changes and modification that has caused
unequal access to education among the class strata. Thus, this paper would employ, historical
antecedent, considering the concept of ‘free education’. The present picture of our schools, in
relation to the expected socialization roles of the schools, in producing desirable adult members
of the society, and the reality, which would make meaningful contribution to societal
development.