Federal Government Abolishes JSS, SSS, Introduces Uninterrupted 12-Year Format

Federal Government Abolishes JSS, SSS, Introduces Uninterrupted 12-Year Format

In a groundbreaking move, the Federal Government has announced the abolition of Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) in Nigeria. This change is part of a broader effort to introduce a compulsory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model, paving the way for Nigerian children to pursue higher education.

According to Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, this new policy aligns with global best practices and aims to reduce dropout rates by eliminating financial and systemic barriers. The reform also seeks to provide students with uninterrupted learning up to the age of 16, ensuring a standardized curriculum across the nation.

*Key Features of the New Policy*

– *12-Year Basic Education Model*: Compulsory education for Nigerian children, preparing them for higher education and employment.

– *Abolition of 6-3-3-4 System*: Replacement with a 12-4 system, streamlining the education process.

– *Minimum Entry Age for Tertiary Institutions*: Proposed increase to 16 years, pending approval from the National Council on Education.

– *Implementation Strategies*: Policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher training, funding, and curriculum enhancement.

Dr. Alausa emphasized that this reform will have a positive economic and social impact, as educated youth contribute significantly to national development. The new policy is expected to reduce child labor and other social vices resulting from premature school dropouts.

The announcement was made during the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education meeting, attended by commissioners for education, agencies, and development partners. The National Council on Education is the highest policy-making body in the education sector.