The Federal Government’s proposed educational system, which seeks to replace the 6-3-3-4 system with a 12-4 model, represents a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s education system.
By eliminating the division between Junior and Senior Secondary Schools and introducing a seamless 12-year basic education structure, the policy aims to provide students with uninterrupted learning experiences.
The government argues that this approach aligns with international standards, reduces dropout rates, and integrates vocational training for better employment readiness.
However, while the policy’s intentions are commendable, its practicality raises significant concerns.
For instance, transitioning from a segmented system to a single uninterrupted cycle requires extensive curriculum restructuring, teacher retraining, and infrastructure development.
Additionally, the proposed minimum entry age of 16 for tertiary education may present challenges for exceptionally bright students who complete their studies earlier.
Implications of the Policy
Expanding schools to accommodate 12 years of basic education would require significant investments in classrooms, learning materials, and teacher training programs.
A 12-year continuous system demands teachers who are well-versed in multi-level education delivery, requiring comprehensive retraining programs.
The government must address Nigeria’s existing teacher shortage to meet the increased demand.
While the reform aims to reduce dropout rates by making education continuous, factors like poverty, cultural norms, and access to quality schooling in rural areas remain major barriers.
Without addressing underlying socio-economic issues, dropout rates may persist despite the policy change.
The integration of digital literacy and vocational training could bridge the skills gap in Nigeria’s workforce.
However, execution must be carefully planned to ensure vocational education does not become a lower-tier option compared to academic pathways.
Recommendations
Instead of an abrupt transition, the government should pilot the policy in select states or regions to assess its effectiveness before nationwide rollout.
Also engaging educators, parents, and industry experts will ensure that the reform is practical and meets the needs of students and employers alike.
The government should allocate dedicated funding for school expansion, teacher recruitment, and digital education resources.
The curriculum should balance theoretical knowledge with practical, skill-based learning to prepare students for diverse career paths.
Conclusion
While the proposed 12-year basic education model has potential benefits, its success depends on careful planning, stakeholder collaboration, and sustained investment.
Simply restructuring the system without addressing existing deficiencies may result in more challenges than improvements. A phased approach, with proper funding and a tailored curriculum, will be key to ensuring this reform achieves its intended objectives.
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