The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has advocated for a transition to a 12-year basic education system in Nigeria, aiming to enhance the country’s educational framework and align it with global best practices.
Alausa presented this proposal on Thursday in Abuja at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education meeting, the highest policy-making body in Nigeria’s education sector. His recommendation comes amid growing concerns about the effectiveness of the current 9-3-4 system, which comprises nine years of basic education, three years of senior secondary education, and four years of tertiary learning.
The minister highlighted key issues necessitating the extraordinary meeting, including the proposed extension to a 12-year basic education framework and the approval of a national policy on bullying in schools. He emphasized that while the existing 9-3-4 structure has its advantages, it also presents challenges, particularly for students who must navigate gaps and obstacles in their pursuit of higher education.
“It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system has its merits, it also comes with drawbacks, such as the need for students to work harder to progress in their education,” Alausa stated.
He argued that shifting to a 12-4 model would streamline the learning experience, ensuring an uninterrupted curriculum that promotes better standardization and quality assurance in Nigeria’s education system. According to him, this change will facilitate a more comprehensive and continuous educational journey for students, ultimately yielding better academic outcomes and contributing to a more skilled and educated workforce.
Technical Education and Policy Adjustments
In addition to the proposed shift in the education system, Alausa revealed plans to transform federal science and technical colleges into federal technical colleges. He underscored the importance of technical education, emphasizing its role in equipping students with practical and applied skills necessary for addressing labor market demands.
“Technical education is vital for any nation seeking to maximize its human and natural resources. A well-developed technical education system significantly contributes to national growth by fostering cultural and industrial advancements,” Alausa remarked.
He also addressed the ongoing deliberations regarding the policy that mandates a minimum age of 16 for university admission. The council is considering adjustments to this policy to create a more inclusive and supportive system for exceptionally talented students.
“Many bright and highly functional students in Nigeria are currently disenfranchised due to the age restriction policy, which prevents them from enrolling in universities until they are 18. This limitation stifles their academic progress and may negatively impact their mental well-being,” Alausa explained.
He warned that leaving such students without academic engagement could lead to increased cases of mental health challenges. “These students are intellectually capable and eager to contribute to society. We must create an education system that nurtures their potential instead of delaying their aspirations,” he concluded.
With this proposed reform, the Nigerian education system could undergo a significant transformation, ensuring a more inclusive, standardized, and globally competitive framework that caters to students’ diverse needs.
Stay updated with Hobnob News for more developments on this and other education policies.
