FG to scrap JSS, SSS, introduces 12-year compulsory basic education

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to abolish the Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) structure, replacing it with a compulsory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model.

Under this new policy, every child will undergo 12 years of continuous basic education before proceeding to higher institutions.

This decision marks the end of the 6-3-3-4 education system, which has been in place for decades. In its place, the government will implement a 12-4 structure, ensuring that students receive a consistent and standardized education before advancing to tertiary institutions.

The new educational framework was unveiled by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the 2025 Extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

According to him, the reform is designed to align Nigeria’s education system with global best practices, addressing key challenges such as school dropouts and systemic barriers.

Dr. Alausa explained that the reform aims to reduce dropout rates by eliminating financial and structural obstacles that hinder students’ progression.

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He emphasized that a uniform, uninterrupted 12-year basic education system would help standardize curricula nationwide and improve overall learning outcomes.

Key benefits of the new system include: Reduced Dropout Rates – Ensuring every child completes at least 12 years of education before higher learning or vocational training.

Early Vocational and Entrepreneurial Exposure – Students will be introduced to practical skills early, preparing them for both higher education and employment.

Alignment with Global Standards – Many developed nations already implement a 12-year basic education model, ensuring foundational knowledge before specialization at tertiary levels.

Improved Global Competitiveness – The reform will help Nigerian students compete favorably in international academic and professional settings.

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The Federal Government is expected to roll out detailed implementation guidelines in the coming months, including curriculum adjustments, teacher training, and infrastructure development.

Policymakers, educators, and stakeholders will collaborate to seamlessly transition from the current 6-3-3-4 system to the new 12-4 model.

This landmark decision marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s education policy, setting the stage for a more inclusive, structured, and globally competitive learning system.