The Federal Government has announced a major reform of Nigeria’s education system with the introduction of a compulsory 12-year continuous basic education model.
Eko Hot News reports that the reform abolishes the separation between Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS), creating a seamless learning structure for students across the country.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the initiative is designed to reduce the number of out-of-school children and improve student retention throughout the basic education cycle.
He explained that the new framework will ensure every Nigerian child has access to uninterrupted and quality education before advancing to tertiary institutions or vocational training.
According to the minister, removing the transition between JSS and SSS will eliminate barriers that often disrupt students’ academic progress.
He added that the reform will strengthen foundational learning while placing greater emphasis on vocational education to equip students with practical skills for the future.
The new education structure is also expected to standardise curriculum delivery across the country and align Nigeria’s school system with internationally recognised best practices.
Dr. Alausa noted that the reform reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to improving learning outcomes and expanding access to quality education for all children.
Implementation of the policy will include comprehensive curriculum reviews to ensure that learning content meets current educational and workforce demands.
The minister disclosed that teachers will receive additional training to prepare them for the revised curriculum and the new instructional approach.
He added that administrative structures within the education sector will also be adjusted to support the successful implementation of the reform.
The Federal Government will work closely with state governments, education agencies, school administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.
Education experts have long advocated reforms that improve continuity in learning, reduce dropout rates, and create stronger pathways to higher education and vocational opportunities.
The government believes the new model will promote greater educational stability while giving more children the opportunity to complete their basic education without interruption.
Officials expressed confidence that the reform will contribute to national development by producing a better-prepared workforce and improving educational outcomes across Nigeria.
The 12-year continuous basic education model represents one of the most significant changes to Nigeria’s education sector in recent years and is expected to shape future learning for millions of students nationwide.
