National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
The Federal Government has announced the abolition of the 6-3-3-4 education system, replacing it with a 12-4 model.
This significant reform, unveiled by Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education meeting, aims to provide Nigerian children with a comprehensive 12-year uninterrupted basic education.
The new policy, which subsumes secondary education into basic education, is designed to ensure that students benefit from uninterrupted learning up to the age of 16. According to Dr. Alausa, “Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized curriculum that is uniformly implemented across the nation. This will also facilitate early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for both higher education and employment.”
The reform is expected to reduce dropout rates by eliminating financial and systemic barriers that currently prevent students from completing secondary education.
Dr. Alausa emphasized that the new policy is in line with global best practices, citing examples of developed nations that have implemented similar systems.
The implementation strategies for the new policy include policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher training and recruitment, funding and partnerships, and curriculum enhancement.
The government has also sought the approval of the National Council on Education to officially adopt 16 years as the minimum entry age requirement into the country’s tertiary institutions.
The move is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy and society, as educated youth contribute significantly to national development.
As Dr. Alausa noted, “When students receive an extended period of compulsory education, they are better equipped to join the workforce with relevant skills.
This reform will also reduce child labor and other social vices resulting from premature school dropouts.”
