Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has proposed the adoption of a new 12-year basic and 4-year tertiary education model in the country.
The Minister made the proposal at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education meeting held in Abuja, Nigeria.
He said the call stems from the limitations of the 9-3-4 model being operated currently in the country.
“It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work in order to further their education.
“It is therefore prudent to transition from the 9-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education. By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education,” he said.
A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum, promoting better standardisation and fostering quality assurance in the education system.
“It will also guarantee that students receive a more comprehensive and continuous learning experience, improve educational outcomes, and contribute to a more educated populace that drives Nigeria’s economic development,” he said
According to him, other key areas for discussion and approval by the NCE include the anti-bullying policy in schools, the conversation of federal science and technical colleges to full-fledged technical colleges as well as the 16 years tertiary institutions admission policy.
He said the rectification of the anti-bullying policy, which was put together by highly experienced educationists involving the judicial system, will discourage violence that has become pronounced in many schools.
“It will also enable students to achieve their full potential without intimidation,” he said.
FME Takes Bold Step Against Anti-Bullying Policy
The Federal Ministry of Education takes a bold step towards finalizing the National Policy on Anti-Bullying in Nigerian Schools, promoting safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments for all students. pic.twitter.com/ECml3fEePo
— Federal Ministry of Education (@NigEducation) February 3, 2025
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The Minister said the Council would also discuss the incorporation of the 16 years policy on admission into tertiary institutions in the country. He said the erstwhile 18 years admission policy stagnates neurons of gifted students and those with the burning desire to further their education.
“Staying at home two years after secondary school draws the students back.
“I am sure many of you have heard about the challenges we face as a nation with talented, bright students being disenfranchised from pursuing tertiary education. In any society, it is crucial to standardise the education of exceptionally gifted students who are highly functional.
“We are now preventing these students, after finishing secondary education at the age of 16, from attending university until they are 18. This delays their development and harms their futures. These students are capable and brave. If we leave them idle, we risk exacerbating mental health issues,” he said.
On the conversion of federal science and technical colleges to federal technical colleges, the minister said the initiative will address the current skills gap in the labour market and drive national development in Nigeria, especially in the industrial sector.
“The provision of technical education allows a nation’s human and natural resources to be harnessed more effectively. Therefore, technical education contributes significantly to national development, driving cultural and industrial progress,” he said.
The Minister also regretted the over 40 percent learning poverty crisis in schools in the country, calling on all state commissioners of education present at the meeting to expedite action in improving education in that area.
“The situation where over 40 percent of our students in schools especially at the primary school levels cannot read and write properly/cognitively calls for urgent attention,” he said.
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