The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a comprehensive review of the country’s basic and senior secondary school curriculum, marking the first significant update in 12 years.
This initiative aims to tackle the ongoing learning crisis in Nigeria and promote the integration of technology and new skills into education. The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during a stakeholders’ dialogue held at the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) in Abuja.
Represented by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, Mamman highlighted the urgent need for this curriculum overhaul. He pointed out that Nigeria is significantly affected by the global learning crisis, with alarming statistics indicating that one in five children out of school worldwide is Nigerian.
“The curriculum was last reviewed 12 years ago, and it is crucial that we address not only the needs of the past five years but also the current and future educational requirements of Nigeria,” he stated.
The Minister emphasized that many Nigerian children struggle with poor numeracy, critical thinking, and overall learning outcomes, which hinder national development.
The new curriculum is designed to improve these areas by equipping students with essential skills for the modern workforce, including job creation and problem-solving abilities. “This will encourage learners to think independently, innovate, and address societal challenges,” he added.
Dr. Margret Lawani, Acting Executive Secretary of NERDC, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stating that the existing curriculum no longer meets contemporary needs.
She emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the curriculum review process, ensuring that it reflects the aspirations and requirements of all Nigerians. “The curriculum is a reflection of the knowledge, skills, values, and competencies that students need to contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
The ongoing review aims to create a globally competitive, competency-based curriculum that addresses critical emerging issues and instills 21st-century skills in learners. This approach shifts the focus from rote learning to practical application, emphasizing what students can do rather than merely what they know.
The stakeholders’ meeting is part of a broader initiative to gather input from various educational stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and community leaders, to ensure that the new curriculum is comprehensive and effective.
Participants are expected to provide suggestions and ratify the framework, which will then lead to the technical drafting of the curriculum.
The Federal Government’s commitment to revamping the education sector is seen as a vital step toward creating a vibrant workforce capable of seizing opportunities in Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.
By integrating technology and modern teaching methods, the government aims to enhance the educational experience for students and prepare them for the challenges of the future.
As Nigeria embarks on this significant educational reform, the hope is that the new curriculum will not only improve learning outcomes but also foster a generation of innovative thinkers and problem solvers who can contribute to the nation’s development.
