The Federal Government has announced a major change in Nigeria’s education system. It has removed Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) and replaced them with a new system where every child must complete 12 years of continuous basic education.
After these 12 years, students can choose to further their education at the university or other higher institutions.
This new system will replace the current 6-3-3-4 education structure (six years in primary school, three years in JSS, three years in SSS, and four years in the university) with a 12-4 system (12 years of basic education followed by at least four years of higher education).
Additionally, the government has proposed that 16 years should be the minimum age for students to enter any university or tertiary institution in Nigeria. This proposal was presented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at a special meeting of the National Council on Education (NCE) in Abuja on Thursday.
Why This Change?
Dr. Alausa explained that the new system is aimed at improving education in Nigeria. By making secondary education part of basic education, students will have an uninterrupted learning experience up to the age of 16. This will remove financial and systemic obstacles that often force students to drop out before completing school.
According to him, extending basic education to 12 years will:
Ensure all students complete their education before entering the workforce or university.
Provide vocational and entrepreneurial skills to prepare students for jobs and business opportunities.
Improve the quality of education by making the curriculum standard across the country.
Bring Nigeria’s education system in line with global best practices, similar to what is done in developed countries.
Reduce child labor and crime by keeping students in school longer.
How Will It Be Implemented?
The Minister outlined steps to ensure a smooth transition to the new education system. These include:
1. Policy Reforms – Making necessary changes in laws and policies to support the new structure.
2. Infrastructure Expansion – Building more classrooms, schools, and facilities to accommodate students for the extended years.
3. Teacher Training and Recruitment – Training current teachers and hiring more qualified teachers to meet the new demands.
4. Funding and Partnerships – Securing enough money from the government and working with private organizations and international partners.
5. Curriculum Enhancement – Updating school subjects to focus on practical skills, vocational training, and modern education methods.
What This Means for Nigerian Students and Parents
With this new system, Nigerian students will be required to complete 12 years of education before they can think about university or other higher education options. Parents will no longer need to worry about their children dropping out early due to financial problems or lack of proper school facilities.
Dr. Alausa assured Nigerians that this reform will have a positive impact on the country’s economy and society. A better-educated youth means a stronger workforce, lower crime rates, and more opportunities for national development.
This is a major step towards improving education in Nigeria and ensuring that every child has a fair chance at success.