The Federal Government Nigeria is planning a policy shift from the 6-3-3-4 system to a 12-4-year education model. This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa on Thursday in Abuja.
According to the Minister, the new policy would be considered at the extra-ordinary National Council on Education (NCE). This is the meeting of the highest policy making body of the Education Ministry.
Recall that Nigeria currently operates the 6-3-3-4 system of education. This consists of nine years of basic education, three years of senior secondary education and four years of tertiary education.
Speaking on the coming extra-ordinary NCE meeting, the Minister pointed out that the meeting is being influenced by some pressing issues. These he said included the introduction of a 12-year basic education system in Nigeria. And also the approval of a national policy on bullying, among others.
Alausa said: “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 6-3-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education. By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education.
“A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum and promoting better standardization. It will also foster quality assurance in the education system.
“It will also guarantee that students receive a more comprehensive and continuous learning experience and improve educational outcomes. And will contribute to a more educated populace that drives Nigeria’s economic development.
“A second key agenda to be discussed today at the extraordinary meeting is the conversion of Federal Science and Technical Colleges into Federal Technical Colleges.”
The Minister noted that the Council would be discussing the 16-year age-limit policy on admission into tertiary institutions. This, he said would be incorporated into the national policy on education.
“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 standardize 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,” Alausa said.
The Minister emphasized that technical education, which imparts practical and applied skills alongside basic scientific knowledge, is crucial for addressing the current skills gap in the labor market.
He said: “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.”
source: The Nation
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