FG Set to Adopt 12-Year Basic Education Model, Scrap Secondary Schools
Tunji Alausa is advocating the adoption of a 12-year basic education model to scrap secondary schools in Nigeria.
The minister spoke on Thursday at the 2025 extraordinary meeting of the National Council on Education (NCE) in Abuja.
The meeting hosted the commissioners for education from the 36 states and the FCT, MDAs, and other development partners.
Alausa said phasing out the 6-3-3-4 model and introducing a 12-4 will reform education in Nigeria to align with global standards.
Nigeria operates the 6–3–3–4 education system where a child enrols in school at age six and undergoes six years each of primary and secondary education, at the end of which they are expected to be aged 18.
The minister said a 12-year basic education system will reduce dropout rates by removing financial and systemic barriers.
He said it would standardise the curriculum and offer early vocational training to prepare students for higher education and employment.
Alausa said the policy, if adopted, is expected to enhance economic and social development by equipping young people with relevant skills and reducing child labour.
