Project – Role of The Church on the Academic Performance of the Youths.
ABSTRACT
This study examines the role of the church in influencing the academic performance of youths, with a specific focus on five selected churches in Surulere, Lagos. The research aims to explore the types of academic support programs offered by churches, the level of youth participation in such activities, and how these engagements impact educational outcomes. The study adopted a descriptive survey design using both quantitative and qualitative methods. A structured questionnaire was administered to 150 youths, while semi-structured interviews were conducted with five youth pastors across the selected churches. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings revealed that churches contribute to youth academic development through initiatives such as free tutorials, motivational seminars, scholarship schemes, and mentorship programs. The study also found a moderate but statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.462; p < 0.05) between church participation and academic performance, indicating that increased involvement in church-based activities can contribute to better academic outcomes. Youth respondents generally perceived church involvement as supportive, although some challenges were noted, such as time conflicts and limited resources. The study concludes that the church plays a valuable role in shaping not only the spiritual but also the intellectual growth of young people. It recommends that churches formalize academic support programs, align them with school schedules, and collaborate with educators and parents to enhance their effectiveness. The study contributes to existing literature by highlighting the intersection between faith-based engagement and educational development among Nigerian youths.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Education is universally acknowledged as a cornerstone for both individual advancement and national development. It empowers young people with knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. For youths in particular, education plays a transformative role in shaping character, morality, discipline, and decision-making. It is not merely a tool for acquiring credentials but a process that molds responsible citizens. In Nigeria, where the youth population constitutes a significant percentage of the total population, the importance of enhancing academic performance cannot be overstated. Consequently, several stakeholders—including government agencies, educational institutions, families, and religious bodies—collaborate directly or indirectly to influence educational outcomes.
Among these stakeholders, the church has emerged as a powerful force in the social and moral development of young people. Historically, Christian missions have played a significant role in the establishment of formal education systems in Nigeria. Many of the earliest schools in the country were built and operated by churches, with the aim of promoting literacy alongside religious and moral instruction. Even in contemporary times, the church continues to contribute through the provision of scholarships, mentoring initiatives, and the organization of academic seminars for youths. These contributions suggest that the church is not only a place of worship but also a nurturing ground for the mental, emotional, and academic growth of its young members (Adeyemo & Onabanjo, 2020).
In particular, church-based programs such as Bible study classes, counseling sessions, and leadership training can serve as platforms for instilling discipline, motivation, and goal-oriented behaviors that support academic excellence. Moreover, the church provides a community of accountability and mentorship that can reinforce the values required for educational success. For many youths facing socio-economic or family-related challenges, the church often becomes a refuge—a source of encouragement, psychological support, and moral guidance (Nwagwu, 2016). These indirect influences may translate into improved concentration, resilience, and self-confidence, all of which are critical to academic performance.
Surulere, a densely populated and culturally vibrant district in Lagos State, presents a unique setting to explore the intersection between church influence and youth education. Home to numerous churches across different denominations, Surulere is also a hub of educational activity, hosting several primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. In many of these churches, youth-focused programs are regularly organized to engage young people in spiritual, social, and academic activities. Sunday school sessions, youth fellowships, educational workshops, and peer mentoring are common features of church life in the area. These programs often extend beyond religious instruction to include themes like time management, career development, and academic excellence.
Despite the notable efforts by churches in supporting youth development, concerns remain about the academic performance of many Nigerian youths, particularly in urban centers like Lagos. Increasing cases of school dropout, examination malpractice, low motivation, and peer influence have become issues of national concern. While some churches offer structured educational support, others may lack the resources or expertise to effectively address the academic challenges facing their youth members. This raises critical questions about the real impact of church-based interventions. Are they sufficiently tailored to meet the academic needs of the youths they serve? Do they produce measurable outcomes in terms of school performance and motivation?
It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the role of the church in enhancing the academic performance of youths, focusing specifically on five selected churches in Surulere, Lagos. The research aims to assess the types of educational support provided by these churches, explore how youths perceive and benefit from such programs, and evaluate whether participation in church activities correlates with improved academic outcomes. The findings of this study will not only contribute to existing literature but also provide practical insights for church leaders, educators, and policymakers committed to youth development in Nigeria.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The academic performance of Nigerian youths has been on a worrying decline in recent years, and this trend has raised significant concern among educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Several factors have been identified as contributors to this decline, including peer pressure, economic instability, inadequate learning facilities, and a general erosion of moral values. Additionally, the lack of parental involvement in the academic life of youths and increased engagement with unproductive social media content have further compounded the issue. These challenges have made it increasingly difficult for many students to achieve optimal academic outcomes, particularly in urban areas such as Lagos.
In the face of these challenges, the church remains one of the most influential institutions in Nigeria. Known for its moral authority and spiritual leadership, the church occupies a unique position in shaping the lives and values of young people. It has the potential to positively influence educational outcomes through structured programs, mentorship, and the promotion of discipline and purpose. However, the degree to which churches have actively and effectively addressed the academic struggles of their youth members is largely undocumented. While moral teachings are central to church life, it is less clear whether such spiritual guidance translates into academic improvement.
Although many churches have introduced youth-focused activities such as Bible study groups, motivational talks, counseling services, and skill acquisition programs, there is limited empirical evidence demonstrating a direct impact of these initiatives on academic performance. Furthermore, some of these church activities, though well-intentioned, may clash with academic responsibilities such as homework time or examination preparations. Youths may experience fatigue, time mismanagement, or even stress from balancing religious commitments with academic obligations. This contradiction suggests that not all church engagements are necessarily beneficial for academic achievement, and raises questions about the effectiveness and coordination of church-led interventions in this regard.
The lack of research on the specific contributions of church-based programs to academic success creates a gap in both academic literature and practical understanding. Without sufficient data, it is difficult for church leaders, educators, and policymakers to design integrated programs that effectively address the educational needs of youths. It also limits the ability to identify best practices that can be replicated or scaled up. There is a pressing need to understand not just whether the church is involved in youth education, but how and to what extent these efforts are influencing measurable academic outcomes.
Therefore, this study aims to explore the role of the church in supporting the academic performance of youths in Surulere, Lagos. It seeks to evaluate the types of educational interventions provided, assess the perception of youths regarding these programs, and determine the impact of church participation on their academic success. By identifying both the strengths and limitations of church-based efforts, the study intends to fill a crucial knowledge gap and provide practical recommendations for enhancing the church’s role in youth education.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to examine the role of the church in promoting the academic performance of youths in Surulere, Lagos. The specific objectives are to:
- Identify the types of academic support programs provided by churches in Surulere.
- Examine the perception of youths towards church-based academic initiatives.
- Assess the relationship between participation in church activities and academic performance.
- Explore challenges that hinder the church’s contribution to youth academic development.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions will guide the study:
- What academic support programs are offered by churches to assist youths in Surulere?
- How do youths perceive the role of the church in their academic pursuits?
- Is there a relationship between church participation and academic performance?
- What are the challenges faced by churches in supporting the academic development of youths?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
H₀: There is no significant relationship between church participation and academic performance of youths.
H1: There is a significant relationship between church participation and academic performance of youths.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant for its contribution to the growing academic discourse on the relationship between religion and education, especially within the Nigerian context. While previous research has largely treated these domains as separate, this study bridges the gap by examining how religious institutions—specifically the church—affect educational outcomes. In doing so, it broadens the scope of education research and brings a new dimension to understanding how non-formal institutions influence learning, discipline, and academic achievement among youths.
Secondly, the study provides church leaders and administrators with concrete insights into how their youth programs affect members beyond the spiritual realm. Many churches conduct youth outreach, mentorship, and social programs with the aim of shaping responsible individuals, but often without measurable evaluation of their effectiveness. By highlighting which types of interventions contribute positively—or negatively—to academic performance, church leaders will be better equipped to design, refine, or expand programs that holistically nurture their youth population, combining spiritual guidance with educational empowerment.
Furthermore, the findings of this research offer practical value for policymakers and educational planners, particularly in urban centers like Lagos where the church continues to be a strong community influence. Understanding the strengths and limitations of faith-based initiatives in education can inform policies that promote greater collaboration between religious institutions and public or private schools. This collaboration could include shared resources, co-hosted educational events, and joint mentorship schemes aimed at addressing the root causes of academic underperformance among youths.
Additionally, educators and parents stand to benefit from this study by gaining a clearer understanding of the environmental and social factors that influence academic outcomes. For parents, the research may encourage greater cooperation with churches in reinforcing discipline and positive learning behaviors at home. For teachers, the study may reveal opportunities for community-based support systems that can supplement classroom efforts, especially in underserved or overstretched school environments.
The research is also valuable to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and development agencies interested in youth development, education, and social welfare. These organizations often seek community entry points and trusted platforms through which to deliver educational support services. Churches, with their strong grassroots presence and moral authority, can serve as effective partners if their potential role in academic enhancement is better understood and strategically harnessed.
Finally, this study contributes to the body of literature available for future academic inquiry. By providing empirical data and contextual analysis, it serves as a foundational resource for researchers interested in exploring the influence of religious institutions on education, whether within Nigeria or in other multicultural, religiously active societies. It opens up new lines of inquiry on how faith-based organizations can evolve from spiritual centers to holistic development hubs, ultimately enhancing not just moral outcomes but academic and intellectual growth among the youth.
1.7 Scope of the Study
This study is limited to five selected churches within Surulere Local Government Area of Lagos State. The churches will be selected based on their size, youth engagement programs, and denominational diversity. The focus will be on youths aged between 13 and 25 who are actively involved in church activities. The study covers church-based programs and their perceived or measurable impact on academic performance.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Church: In the context of this study, the church refers specifically to Christian religious institutions that function not only as places of worship but also as community centers offering spiritual, moral, and social guidance. Churches in Nigeria, particularly in urban areas like Surulere, often go beyond traditional Sunday services to include a wide range of programs such as youth fellowships, Bible studies, skill acquisition training, counseling, and community development initiatives. These programs reflect the church’s evolving role as both a spiritual and social actor in the lives of its members, particularly youths. As such, the church becomes a critical space for nurturing values, discipline, and life direction, all of which may directly or indirectly influence academic pursuits.
Academic Performance: Academic performance refers to the measurable outcomes of a student’s engagement with formal education. It is typically evaluated through continuous assessment scores, examination results, grade point averages (GPA), and other standardized tests. Academic performance serves as a key indicator of a student’s learning progress, comprehension, and intellectual development. In this study, academic performance is not only seen as a reflection of school achievement but also as a variable that may be influenced by external factors such as family background, community support systems, and religious participation—including involvement in church activities.
Youth: The term “youth” in this study is defined as individuals between the ages of 13 and 25. This age bracket generally covers the period of adolescence to early adulthood, which coincides with attendance in secondary schools and tertiary institutions. It is a critical developmental stage marked by identity formation, social exploration, and educational engagement. Youths are particularly impressionable during this period, making them susceptible to both positive and negative influences from peers, family, and institutions like the church. This study focuses on this group due to their active participation in both academic environments and church communities, making them ideal subjects for evaluating how the two spheres interact.
Church Participation: Church participation refers to the degree of a youth’s active involvement in various church-related activities. These may include regular attendance at worship services, membership in youth fellowships, participation in Bible study groups, engagement in community outreach programs, and enrollment in church-organized educational support initiatives such as seminars or tutoring sessions. Church participation, as conceptualized in this study, goes beyond mere attendance and examines the depth and frequency of engagement with church programs. It is assumed that the more engaged a youth is with these programs, the more likely they are to be influenced by the church’s moral, spiritual, and educational teachings.
Church participation is further examined not just as a religious activity, but as a potential social intervention. Activities organized by churches often provide safe spaces for mentorship, peer support, and moral education, which can complement academic efforts at home and school. However, excessive involvement or poor scheduling may conflict with academic responsibilities. Thus, this study explores both the positive and possible negative dimensions of church participation as they relate to academic performance.
Project – Role of The Church on the Academic Performance of the Youths.
