The Federal Government has announced the introduction of 15 new trades in the Basic Education curriculum in Nigeria, aimed at enhancing the skills and employability of graduates from primary and junior secondary schools. The new curriculum will be implemented in schools starting January 2025.
During a meeting with stakeholders in Abuja on Monday, Education Minister Professor Tahir Mamman shared the details of this initiative.
He explained that the curriculum received approval last week from the National Council on Education (NCE), along with a timeline for its implementation and the National Skills Framework.
Mamman also mentioned ongoing efforts to develop a new Senior Secondary Education Curriculum, which is expected to be ready for implementation by September 2025.
He convened the stakeholders meeting to discuss strategies for the smooth implementation, support, monitoring, and evaluation of the new basic education curriculum.
To prepare for this change, the government plans to spend the next three months refining arrangements to ensure that both private and public schools can fully implement the curriculum by January.
This will involve teacher training, the creation of instructional guides, and infrastructure development.
The new curriculum is designed to equip Nigerian children with essential 21st-century skills, empowering them to become self-reliant and capable of creating jobs, thus contributing positively to national development.
Mamman emphasised that the previous curriculum, in use since 2012, had become outdated. He expressed confidence that the new curriculum would position Nigerian graduates as globally competitive.
Among the newly introduced subjects is Basic Digital Literacy, which encompasses IT and robotics, alongside traditional subjects. The Minister outlined the various sectors covered under the Vocational and Entrepreneurship Studies, including:
- Building and Construction Industry: plumbing, tiling, floor works, and POP installation.
- Hospitality and Leisure: event decoration, management, bakery, and confectioneries.
- Hair and Beauty: hairstyling, makeup, and interior design.
- Services Sector: GSM repairs, satellite and TV antenna installation, CCTV and intercom maintenance, as well as solar installation and maintenance.
- Garment Making and Agriculture: encompassing crop production, beekeeping, horticulture, and livestock farming.
In total, the curriculum will include about 15 different trades tailored for basic education. The Minister affirmed that students will be exposed to various occupational subjects, allowing them to choose one or two entrepreneurial trades and graduate with multiple skills.
Overall, the new curriculum aims to blend knowledge, skills, and values, placing a significant emphasis on skill development. This approach ensures that graduates are equipped with skills that align with economic needs, fostering productive lives.
