A SWOT Analysis of the state of Civic Education in Secondary Schools in Zambia

The aim of this study was to identify the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats of Civic Education in secondary schools in Zambia. A descriptive survey was conducted among Civic Education Examiners (Teachers) from across the country who gathered to mark Grade 12 examinations. The target population was all the teachers of Civic Education in secondary schools. The sample consisted of 208 teachers who were purposively selected. Interviews and Focus Group Discussions were used to gather data. A pilot study was conducted for the so purpose of validating the instruments. The key findings were: Strengths – Civic Education has brought awareness on many issues effecting society, the subject is holistic in nature and it prepares learners to be enlightened, responsive, active and participative. Weaknesses – the subject is perceived as a mere passing subject and, it compromised discipline in schools. Opportunities – learners become critical thinkers, acquire relevant knowledge, skills and values. Threats – not compulsory in all secondary schools despite policy direction and the content was based on current social situation. Based on the findings, this study recommends among others to the Ministry of Education to make constant reviews of the curriculums to determine their effective implementation.