FG scraps JSS, SSS, introduces a 12-year basic education model.

The Federal Government has announced the elimination of all Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) and Senior Secondary Schools in the country, introducing instead a mandatory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model. After completing this model, Nigerian children will be eligible for higher education. 

This initiative replaces the existing 6-3-3-4 education system with a new 12-4 structure. Additionally, the government has sought the approval of the National Council on Education (NCE) to officially adopt 16 years as the minimum entry age for the country’s tertiary institutions. 

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed these developments on Thursday in Abuja during the extraordinary NCE meeting for 2025. The NCE is the highest policy-making body in Nigeria's education sector. 

The event was attended by education commissioners from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with various agencies and parastatals under the Ministry, as well as development partners. 

According to the Minister, by integrating secondary education into the basic education framework, students will benefit from an uninterrupted learning experience until the age of 16. 

Alausa emphasized that this new policy aligns with global best practices.

 He stated that the reform aims to reduce dropout rates by eliminating financial and systemic barriers that currently hinder students from completing their secondary education.

 "Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized curriculum that is uniformly implemented across the nation," Alausa explained. "This will also allow for early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for both higher education and employment." 

He noted that many developed nations have adopted similar systems where basic education spans 12 years, allowing students to gain foundational knowledge before specializing in higher education. "This reform also aligns Nigeria's education system with international standards, enhancing educational outcomes and global competitiveness," Alausa added. 

He pointed out that educated youth contribute significantly to national development. 

"When students receive an extended period of compulsory education, they are better equipped to enter the workforce with relevant skills.

 "This reform will also help reduce child labor and other social issues that arise from premature school dropouts."

 Alausa highlighted various implementation strategies to successfully integrate secondary education into basic education, including policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher training and recruitment, funding and partnerships, as well as curriculum enhancement.