The Federal Ministry of Education has dismissed reports suggesting that the government has abolished Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) in favour of a 12-year uninterrupted Basic Education system. In a statement, the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, clarified that the proposal presented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, at the Extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting on 6th February 2025 was for discussion rather than an immediate policy change. The proposal aims to ensure 12 years of compulsory education while retaining the current 6-3-3 structure. A key component involves removing the examination requirement between JSS and SSS to allow for a smooth transition. However, the plan is still under review, and extensive stakeholder consultations will take place over the next eight months before a final decision at the October 2025 NCE meeting.
Moreover, the ministry urged the public to disregard claims that JSS and SSS have been scrapped, stressing that the government remains committed to policies that enhance access to quality education. It assured that consultations would involve state governments, teachers, education policymakers, and parents to ensure a well-informed decision. While the objective is to improve the education system, the proposed elimination of an external assessment between JSS and SSS has sparked discussions on its feasibility and potential impact on students’ preparedness for higher education. Concerns have also been raised about how the government intends to implement compulsory 12-year education nationwide, given existing disparities in school Infrastructure and resources.
External examinations add to pressure on students.
Furthermore, the idea of removing the examination barrier is seen as a step towards reducing dropout rates and ensuring that students complete their secondary education. Many students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, struggle with transitioning from JSS to SSS due to financial constraints or academic difficulties. Eliminating an external examination at this stage could ease pressure on students and reduce the risk of them abandoning school prematurely. However, some education experts worry that removing this assessment could weaken academic standards. Examinations help evaluate students’ readiness for more advanced coursework, and without them, it may be harder to identify those who need extra support. A careful balance will be needed to ensure inclusivity without compromising academic rigour.
Another concern is the practicality of enforcing 12 years of compulsory education across all states, given existing disparities in infrastructure and resources. While the proposal aims to improve access to education, its success will depend on adequate Investment in school facilities, Teacher training, and learning materials. Many public schools already face Overcrowding and limited funding, making it unclear how the government plans to address these challenges. In rural areas, where schools are often under-resourced, enforcing 12 years of education may prove difficult. Without proper support, students may still drop out before completing secondary school, even if the policy is in place.
A change in the school curriculum will benefit students.
Stakeholders will also need clarity on how the new structure aligns with existing qualification frameworks. If students transition without examinations, how will schools ensure they meet necessary learning milestones? A shift towards continuous assessment may be required, but this would demand changes in teaching methods and evaluation processes. Teachers would need training to implement fair and consistent assessments. However, with current challenges such as teacher shortages and Curriculum inconsistencies, ensuring a uniform approach may be difficult. There are also concerns about whether tertiary institutions and employers will recognise the new system as a reliable measure of student competence.
Beyond changes to the structure, improving the curriculum is also crucial to preparing students for the modern economy. Vocational Training and Digital Literacy should be expanded within secondary schools to enhance employability and bridge the gap between education and the job market. Many Nigerian graduates struggle to secure jobs due to a lack of practical skills, showing the need for a curriculum that integrates hands-on training. Simply altering the transition process may not address deeper issues in the education system if students still graduate without the necessary skills for further education or employment.
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As consultations continue, the government must engage widely to ensure any policy shift is evidence-based and practical. Input from education stakeholders will be crucial in shaping a system that improves access while maintaining academic standards. Reforms should not only address existing challenges but also strengthen learning outcomes to prepare students for further education or employment. A well-planned approach is essential to avoid unintended consequences that could weaken education quality. The coming months will determine whether this proposal becomes a transformative policy or remains under discussion.