Chemistry, once regarded as the “central science,” seems to be losing its grip on the educational and industrial sectors in Nigeria and across Africa. As nations strive for technological and industrial advancement, the declining interest in chemistry poses a serious concern. Is chemistry truly dying in Nigeria and Africa, or is it undergoing a quiet transformation? Let’s dive into the situation.
In many Nigerian universities and African educational institutions, enrollment into chemistry programs has dropped significantly over the past two decades. Young students are increasingly choosing fields like computer science, engineering, and business studies, believing they offer quicker paths to financial success. Chemistry, often seen as tough and outdated, struggles to compete with more “modern” disciplines in the eyes of today’s youth.
Another major factor contributing to the decline is the lack of investment in scientific research and infrastructure. Laboratories in many Nigerian and African schools are poorly equipped, leaving students unable to connect theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Without the necessary facilities, studying chemistry becomes tedious and uninspiring, pushing more students away from the field.
The job market for chemistry graduates also tells a discouraging story. Unlike engineering or IT graduates, many chemistry degree holders in Nigeria and Africa face limited employment opportunities. Industries that traditionally relied on chemists, such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture, have either scaled down operations or prefer multi-skilled professionals, further squeezing the demand for specialized chemists.
Government policies and funding priorities also reflect a shift away from pure sciences like chemistry. Many African governments have focused heavily on ICT (Information and Communications Technology) and entrepreneurship as engines of growth, leaving traditional sciences like chemistry with minimal attention. This shift in focus indirectly signals to students that chemistry is a “dying” field with little future.
However, it would be inaccurate to say that chemistry is entirely dying; instead, it is evolving. In fields like biotechnology, environmental science, materials science, and nanotechnology, chemistry remains essential. The issue lies more with how chemistry is marketed and integrated into emerging sectors. In Nigeria and Africa, a renewed emphasis on applied chemistry could reignite interest among students and industries alike.
Some initiatives are already making a difference. International collaborations, grants for research innovation, and efforts to revamp STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education are breathing new life into chemistry education. Organizations such as the Pan Africa Chemistry Network (PACN) are working hard to raise awareness about the importance of chemistry to Africa’s sustainable development.
Moreover, solving Africa’s critical challenges—such as food security, clean water access, renewable energy, and healthcare—requires strong chemistry knowledge. The development of new fertilizers, clean water purification methods, and affordable medicines all hinge on chemical innovation. Chemistry remains vital for Africa’s future, whether today’s students recognize it or not.
To revive chemistry in Nigeria and Africa, a collective effort is required. Governments must invest in laboratories, create job opportunities for chemists, and modernize chemistry curricula to align with global trends. Educators must inspire students by demonstrating how chemistry solves real-world problems. Industries must collaborate with academia to show chemistry’s relevance in everyday life and the global economy.
In conclusion, chemistry in Nigeria and Africa is not dying—it is at a crossroads. With the right policies, investments, and public engagement, chemistry can thrive again, helping to drive innovation, industrial growth, and sustainable development across the continent. Chemistry is not a relic of the past; it is a gateway to Africa’s future.
