FG debunks claims of scrapping JSS, SSS, but confirms ongoing discussions
Federal Government Clarifies Ongoing Discussions on Education Reform, Denies Scrapping JSS and SSS System
In a recent statement, the Federal Government has refuted claims that it has abolished the Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) system. Instead, it confirmed that discussions are still underway regarding potential reforms to the current education structure.
Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, addressed the issue in an interview with THISDAY, emphasizing that while the government is considering a shift to a 12-year uninterrupted basic education model, no final decisions have been made. This clarification comes in response to a media report suggesting that the government had already replaced the existing 6-3-3-4 education system with a 12-4 model.
The report had alleged that the minister announced this change during the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting in Abuja. However, Alausa clarified that Nigeria is still in the early stages of deliberation and that any proposed changes would require approval from the National Council of Education, the highest authority on education policies.
Why the Reform?
The proposed 12-year basic education system aims to extend Nigeria’s compulsory education period from nine to twelve years. According to Alausa, this adjustment is intended to strengthen students’ foundational knowledge, which has reportedly declined under the current system.
“We are proposing to increase compulsory education from nine to twelve years to ensure students are better prepared for tertiary education and to align with global standards,” Alausa explained. He added that a continuous curriculum would promote better standardization, quality assurance, and improved educational outcomes.
The minister also highlighted concerns about age restrictions delaying talented students from entering universities. “Bright students who complete secondary school at 16 are often forced to wait until they turn 18 before they can enroll in tertiary institutions. This delay not only hinders their academic progress but could also negatively impact their mental health,” he noted.
No Immediate Changes
Despite the ongoing discussions, Alausa assured the public that no changes would be implemented before the last quarter of 2025. This means the current 6-3-3-4 system remains in place for now, and any potential reforms will undergo thorough evaluation and approval processes before being enacted.
The proposed reform reflects the government’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s education system and ensuring it meets international standards. However, as Alausa reiterated, the process is still in its early stages, and stakeholders will be kept informed as discussions progress.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!
