The Federal Government has scrapped the Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) structure in Nigeria, replacing it with a compulsory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model.
This new system will allow students to complete their foundational education before progressing to higher institutions or vocational training.
With this reform, the government is moving away from the current 6-3-3-4 system and adopting a 12-4 structure.
Additionally, it is seeking approval from the National Council on Education (NCE) to set 16 years as the minimum age for entry into tertiary institutions.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made this announcement on Thursday in Abuja during an extraordinary meeting of the NCE, the country’s highest policy-making body in the education sector.
The meeting was attended by education commissioners from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as representatives of agencies under the Education Ministry and development partners.
Dr. Alausa explained that merging secondary education into basic education will ensure continuous learning up to age 16, aligning Nigeria’s system with international best practices.
He emphasized that the reform aims to eliminate financial and systemic barriers that often lead to high dropout rates, thereby ensuring that more students complete their education.
“This policy will provide a standardized curriculum nationwide, offering early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills. It will better prepare students for higher education and employment opportunities,” Alausa stated.
He pointed out that many developed countries follow similar models, ensuring that students acquire a solid foundation before specializing at tertiary levels.
According to him, the reform will enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness and contribute to national development by equipping young people with relevant skills.
To implement the new system successfully, the government plans to focus on policy reforms, expanding infrastructure, training and recruiting teachers, securing funding, fostering partnerships, and enhancing the curriculum.
Alausa also noted that extending compulsory education to 12 years will have significant economic and social benefits, including reducing child labor and other social vices associated with early school dropouts.
