FG Advocates Shift In Education System From 6-3-3-4 To 12-4 Year Model

A policy shift in Nigeria’s education model is underway, Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa has hinted.

He said the Federal Government plans a shift from the 6-3-3-4 system to a 12-4 year education model.

The proposal, the minister said, would be considered at the extra-ordinary National Council on Education (NCE) – a meeting of the highest policy making body – holding in Abuja.

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Nigeria operates the 6-3-3-4 system, which consists of nine years of basic education, three years of senior secondary education and four years of tertiary education.

However, Alausa pointed out that some of the issues influencing the convening of the extra-ordinary NCE meeting include the introduction of a 12-year basic education system in Nigeria’s education framework and the approval of a national policy on bullying, among others.

Alausa said: “It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work in order to further their education.

“It is therefore prudent to transition from the 6-3-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education. By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education.

“A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum, promoting better standardization and fostering quality assurance in the education system.

“It will also guarantee that students receive a more comprehensive and continuous learning experience, improve educational outcomes, and contribute to a more educated populace that drives Nigeria’s economic development.

“A second key agenda to be discussed today at the extraordinary meeting is the conversion of federal science and technical colleges into federal technical colleges.”

He also said that the Council would be discussing the 16-year age-limit policy on admission into tertiary institutions, which is to be incorporated into the national policy on education.

NATION