As the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) approaches, candidates are required to study “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabiru Alabi Garba, which has been designated as the official novel for the Use of English paper.
This blog post will provide an overview of the novel, discuss key themes, and offer insights into potential questions and answers that may be relevant for the examination.
Overview of “The Lekki Headmaster”
“The Lekki Headmaster” is a captivating narrative that explores themes of education, societal challenges, and personal growth within the context of contemporary Nigerian society.
The story revolves around the experiences of a headmaster in a school located in the affluent Lekki area of Lagos, highlighting the disparities between educational institutions in different socio-economic settings.
Key Themes
- Education and Its Challenges: The novel delves into the struggles faced by educators in Nigeria, including inadequate resources, bureaucratic hurdles, and the impact of societal expectations on students’ performance.
- Socio-Economic Disparities: It contrasts the lives of students from privileged backgrounds with those from less affluent families, showcasing how these differences affect their educational opportunities and aspirations.
- Personal Growth and Responsibility: The protagonist’s journey reflects themes of self-discovery, responsibility, and the importance of mentorship in shaping young minds.
- Community Involvement: The narrative emphasizes the role of community support in enhancing educational outcomes and fostering a culture of learning.
Potential Questions and Answers for JAMB 2025/2026
As candidates prepare for their UTME, they should focus on understanding the novel’s key elements. Here are some potential questions along with suggested answers that may help in exam preparation:
Sample Questions
- What are the main challenges faced by the headmaster in “The Lekki Headmaster”?
- Answer: The headmaster faces challenges such as inadequate funding for school resources, resistance from parents regarding educational reforms, and difficulties in motivating both teachers and students to achieve academic excellence.
- How does socio-economic status influence the characters in the novel?
- Answer: Socio-economic status significantly affects students’ access to quality education. Those from wealthy backgrounds often have better facilities and support systems, while those from poorer families struggle with basic needs, impacting their academic performance.
- Discuss the role of mentorship as portrayed in “The Lekki Headmaster.”
- Answer: Mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding students towards achieving their goals. The headmaster serves as a mentor to his students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite obstacles. This relationship highlights the importance of guidance in personal development.
- What is the significance of community involvement in education as depicted in the novel?
- Answer: Community involvement is portrayed as vital for improving educational outcomes. The novel illustrates how collaborative efforts between schools and local communities can lead to better resources, support for students, and enhanced learning environments.
- Analyze how “The Lekki Headmaster” addresses issues of educational reform in Nigeria.
- Answer: The novel critiques existing educational policies and advocates for reforms that prioritize equitable access to quality education for all students, regardless of their socio-economic status. It suggests that systemic changes are necessary to address these disparities effectively.
Download Lekki Headmaster JAMB Novel 2025 PDF by Kabiru Alabi Garba
Study Tips for JAMB Candidates
- Read Actively: Engage with the text by taking notes on key themes, character developments, and important events.
- Discuss with Peers: Join study groups or forums where you can discuss themes and questions related to “The Lekki Headmaster.” This can enhance understanding through diverse perspectives.
- Practice Past Questions: Familiarize yourself with past JAMB questions related to literature and comprehension to improve your answering techniques.
- Summarize Chapters: Create summaries for each chapter to reinforce your understanding of plot progression and character arcs.
Conclusion
Studying “The Lekki Headmaster” is essential for candidates preparing for the 2025 UTME. By understanding its themes and being prepared to answer potential questions regarding its content, candidates can enhance their chances of success in the examination.
As you prepare, remember that critical thinking about the text will not only help you answer direct questions but also enable you to engage thoughtfully with related topics during your exams. Good luck