In a bold move to reform Nigeria’s education sector, the Federal Government has announced plans to replace the existing 6-3-3-4 system with a new 12-year uninterrupted basic education model. This policy shift, which effectively integrates junior and senior secondary education into a single phase, aims to provide a seamless learning experience for students up to age 16 before they transition to higher education.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made this revelation on Thursday in Abuja during the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting. The gathering, attended by commissioners for education from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as key stakeholders in the education sector, focused on strategies to enhance Nigeria’s academic framework.
Alausa emphasized that the proposed system aligns with global best practices, ensuring that students receive continuous education without the interruptions often caused by systemic challenges. The government is also seeking approval from the NCE to establish 16 years as the minimum age for entry into tertiary institutions.
“By extending basic education to 12 years, we are not only streamlining learning but also addressing dropout rates by eliminating financial and systemic barriers,” Alausa stated. He noted that the policy would provide early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, equipping students with practical knowledge for higher education and employment.
The reform, he said, mirrors educational models in developed nations, where an extended period of foundational education ensures better academic outcomes and global competitiveness. Additionally, it is expected to have significant social and economic impacts, reducing child labor and keeping more students engaged in structured learning environments.
To ensure smooth implementation, the government plans to focus on policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher recruitment and training, curriculum enhancement, and partnerships for funding. Alausa stressed that a standardized curriculum across the country would be key to making the transition effective.
As discussions continue within the NCE, stakeholders are expected to deliberate on the framework for integrating this new model into Nigeria’s education landscape, marking what could be a transformative step in the country’s academic system. (Source: JEO)
