Nigeria’s Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa swiftly addressed mounting confusion regarding the future of secondary education in Africa’s most populous nation, firmly stating that reports of scrapping Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) systems are inaccurate.
The clarification comes following widespread media coverage that misinterpreted discussions at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education meeting in Abuja. During the high-level policy gathering, Alausa presented a proposal to streamline the educational framework while maintaining the existing structural foundations of Nigeria’s school system.
At the heart of the proposed reform lies a subtle yet significant shift in how students progress through their academic journey. Rather than dismantling the current 6-3-3-4 educational model, the ministry envisions eliminating the examination barrier between JSS and SSS levels. This modification aims to create a more fluid educational experience without compromising the established framework that has shaped Nigerian education for decades.
The minister’s vision focuses on transforming the existing system into a 12-year compulsory education model, maintaining the familiar 6-3-3 structure while removing potential roadblocks that might hinder student progression. This approach represents a careful balance between preserving successful educational elements and adapting to modern educational needs.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, Alausa emphasized that the proposal remains in its preliminary stages, requiring extensive consultation with various stakeholders before any implementation could be considered. The ministry has outlined an eight-month engagement period, recognizing the importance of gathering diverse perspectives from education policymakers, state governments, teachers, and parents.
This comprehensive stakeholder engagement process underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive decision-making in educational reform. The final verdict on these proposed changes will be determined at the October 2025 National Council on Education Meeting, allowing ample time for thorough deliberation and refinement of the proposal.
The confusion surrounding the proposal highlights the sensitive nature of educational reform in Nigeria, where any suggested changes to the established system can trigger widespread public concern. The minister’s quick response to clarify the situation demonstrates the government’s awareness of the need for clear communication when discussing potential educational reforms.
The proposed changes aim to address long-standing concerns about transition points in Nigerian education while preserving the structural integrity of the current system. By potentially eliminating external assessments between JSS and SSS, the reform could reduce academic pressure at crucial developmental stages while maintaining educational standards.
Educational experts note that such reforms could significantly impact student retention rates and academic progression, particularly in regions where external examination requirements have historically created barriers to continued education. However, the maintenance of the existing structure ensures stability while pursuing these improvements.
The ministry’s approach to this reform proposal reflects a broader trend in global education policy, where countries increasingly seek to balance traditional educational frameworks with modern pedagogical needs. The emphasis on stakeholder engagement and gradual implementation demonstrates an understanding of the complexities involved in educational system changes.
As discussions continue, the ministry’s focus remains on ensuring any potential changes serve to enhance rather than disrupt Nigeria’s educational landscape. The eight-month consultation period provides an opportunity for thorough examination of the proposal’s implications and refinement based on stakeholder input.
The October 2025 meeting of the National Council on Education will likely serve as a crucial turning point in determining the future direction of Nigerian education, with stakeholders across the sector watching closely as these discussions unfold.
