In a major shake-up of the education system, Nigeria scraps JSS and SSS and introduces a 12-year Education System, ensuring uninterrupted learning for all students before higher education.
This reform aims to reshape learning and ensure that every Nigerian child completes basic education before pursuing higher studies, Hitvibz reports.
But what does this mean for students, parents, and the future of education in Nigeria?
Nigeria Scraps JSS and SSS to Adopt a New Education Model
The new 12-year education system replaces the long-standing 6-3-3-4 model, which divided schooling into primary, junior secondary, senior secondary, and tertiary education.
Under the new structure, all secondary education is integrated into basic education, guaranteeing students continuous learning up to age 16.
The Federal Government is also pushing for 16 years as the minimum entry age into tertiary institutions and has submitted the proposal to the National Council on Education (NCE), the country’s highest education policy-making body.
Speaking at the 2025 extraordinary NCE meeting in Abuja, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa emphasised that the policy aligns Nigeria with global education standards while addressing systemic issues.
“Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized curriculum that is uniformly implemented across the nation,” Alausa stated.
How the 12-Year Education System Will Impact Students
According to the Minister, integrating secondary education into basic learning will prevent dropouts caused by financial constraints and systemic barriers.
The reform also focuses on vocational and entrepreneurial skills, ensuring students are better prepared for higher education and employment.
“Many developed nations have implemented similar systems where basic education spans 12 years, ensuring that students acquire foundational knowledge before specializing at tertiary levels,” Alausa explained.
Beyond academics, the government expects this shift to reduce child labor and social vices, as students will remain in school longer.
“Educated youth contribute significantly to national development. When students receive an extended period of compulsory education, they are better equipped to join the workforce with relevant skills,” he added.
To implement the reform effectively, the government plans to invest in policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher recruitment and training, curriculum development, and strategic funding partnerships.
With this new policy, Nigeria’s education landscape is set for its most significant transformation in decades.
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