October 19, 2024
Adesakin Adefemi
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a groundbreaking reform in the nation’s educational curriculum, introducing 15 skill acquisition courses in primary and junior secondary schools.
This innovative move aims to equip students with practical skills and enhance employability, starting from the 2025 academic year. Students will choose one skill from the list of 15 courses and receive both theoretical and practical knowledge from Primary 1 to JSS 3 (9 years).
The 15 skill courses include Plumbing, Tiling and Floor Works, POP Installation, Event Decoration and Management, Bakery and Confectioneries, Hairstyling, Makeup, Interior Design, GSM Repairs, Satellite/TV Antenna Installation, CCTV, Intercom Installation, and Maintenance.
Other courses include Solar Installation and Maintenance, Garment Making, Agriculture and Processing (including crop production, beekeeping, horticulture, sheep and goat farming, poultry, and rabbit farming), and Basic Digital Literacy (IT and Robotics).
To ensure the success of this program, teachers will be trained, retrained, and employed in both public and private schools nationwide. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s focus on fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance among its youth.
The National Council on Education has approved the curriculum update, which is set to take effect in January 2025. This reform is expected to provide learners with the opportunity to detect their talents and potentials early in life.
By incorporating skill acquisition into the curriculum, Nigeria aims to produce well-rounded graduates equipped with practical skills, enhancing their chances of success in the workforce and entrepreneurship.
