The Federal Government will hold a crucial meeting with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS) on Wednesday to discuss the proposed extension of basic education to 12 years.
The initiative, introduced by the Minister of Education, Mr. Tunji Alausa, aims to integrate junior and senior secondary education into a unified program, but it has sparked mixed reactions among education stakeholders. Many have called for careful deliberation before any decision is made.
In an exclusive interview, ANCOPPS National President, Mr. Musa Ibrahim, clarified that while the minister has proposed the idea, it has not yet been enacted into law.
“The minister has made a proposal, but it’s not a law yet. He has simply suggested it, and we haven’t had the chance to discuss it thoroughly. We’re not backing or rejecting this policy change just yet. What we need to do is look at the blueprint, whether it’s 12 years, nine years, or 10 years—it all depends,” Ibrahim stated.
He further revealed that the upcoming meeting in Abuja will provide an opportunity for deeper discussions.
“We’re heading to Abuja on Wednesday for a meeting, and once we’ve had our discussions, I’ll be sure to brief you on the outcome,” he added.
Similarly, the NUT National President, Mr. Audu Amber, emphasized the need for thorough analysis before making any definitive statements.
“Thank God you said it’s a proposal. Since the day before yesterday, I’ve not been talking because all the media houses, both print and broadcast, have been calling me for our comment. I don’t want to comment now because until I get the full picture and intentions of the government, I can’t speak on it,” Amber said.
Support for the Proposal
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Mr. Haruna Danjuma, expressed support for the proposed education reform, stating that it could help reduce student dropout rates and enhance skill acquisition.
“The addition of putting together junior and senior school of three years each, forming a nine-year program of basic education, is a good move. Once you start JS1, you continue until you complete SS3, and at the end, you will obtain a certificate for 12 years of basic education,” Danjuma noted.
He highlighted that eliminating examinations between junior and senior secondary school would ensure a seamless transition for students.
“There will be no examination in between. So, once you start, you continue until you complete SS3, and you will receive a 12-year certificate of basic education. The idea here is that there is no break in the transition, which even saves some students from dropping out,” he explained.
Danjuma also pointed out that the curriculum would incorporate vocational skills from primary four, preparing students for both higher education and practical career paths.
“In basic education, it’s expected that students will start learning practical skills, either in electricity or computer education, from class four onward. This will give our children more attention to learning, enabling them to pass their SS3 exams and qualify to sit for JAMB or WAEC,” he stated.
The proposed extension of basic education to 12 years is a major policy shift that could reshape Nigeria’s education system. The outcome of Wednesday’s meeting will be crucial in determining the next steps for its implementation.
