
ADULT EDUCATION: JAMB SUBJECT COMBINATION AND ITS RELEVANCE TO POLITICAL SCIENCE AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Introduction
In recent years, the demand for adult education has grown significantly as individuals seek to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies in various fields. The realm of adult education encompasses a wide array of subjects, including Political Science and Public Administration. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) plays a vital role in determining the subject combinations for different courses, including those related to adult education. In this article, i will explore the JAMB subject combination for Adult Education, with a focus on its relevance to Political Science and Public Administration.
Understanding Adult Education
Adult Education is an educational discipline designed to cater to the learning needs of adults, typically beyond the traditional school age. This branch of education acknowledges that adult learners possess unique characteristics and motivations, such as diverse life experiences and specific learning objectives. Adult Education programs aim to facilitate personal development, career advancement, and societal contributions. In many cases, individuals may choose to pursue Adult Education to complement their existing skills or transition into new careers.
JAMB Subject Combination for Adult Education

For prospective students interested in pursuing a degree in Adult Education, it is essential to understand the JAMB subject combination required for admission into Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions offering this course. As of my last update in September 2021, the JAMB subject combination for Adult Education typically includes:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Any three (3) relevant subjects from the following options:
- Government/History
- Economics
- Geography
- Mathematics
It is important to check the official JAMB brochure or contact the specific university for any updates or changes to the subject combination.
Relevance to Political Science and Public Administration
The study of Adult Education, when combined with Political Science and Public Administration, provides a robust educational foundation for individuals interested in careers related to public service, policy development, and governance. Here are some reasons why these subjects complement each other:
1. Lifelong Learning in Governance: Political Science and Public Administration explore the intricacies of government systems, policies, and the implementation of public programs. Adult Education contributes by fostering a culture of lifelong learning and continuous professional development among public administrators and political leaders.
2. Policy Formulation and Implementation: Adult Education equips individuals with the necessary skills to design effective training and educational programs. When applied to Public Administration, these skills become vital in designing and implementing policies that address the educational needs of the adult population, such as vocational training, upskilling, and retraining initiatives.
3. Public Engagement and Participation: Adult Education emphasizes the importance of engaging adult learners in the learning process and encouraging active participation. In the context of Political Science, this translates into promoting civic engagement and encouraging adults to participate actively in political processes, such as voting, community development, and advocacy.
4. Leadership and Decision-Making: The study of Adult Education enhances leadership skills and decision-making abilities, which are indispensable in the realms of Political Science and Public Administration. Leaders who understand the value of lifelong learning are better equipped to address complex governance challenges effectively.
5. Social Inclusion and Equity: Adult Education advocates for inclusivity and equal opportunities in education, ensuring that all adults, regardless of background or circumstances, have access to learning resources. This aligns with the principles of equitable public administration and governance, where policies aim to uplift disadvantaged or marginalized communities.
Conclusion
The JAMB subject combination for Adult Education plays a crucial role in shaping the educational journey of aspiring learners. When combined with Political Science and Public Administration, Adult Education enriches the understanding of governance, policy formulation, and public engagement. As the world continues to evolve, the integration of these disciplines will be instrumental in fostering competent and dynamic leaders committed to lifelong learning and the betterment of society.