Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, has addressed recent media reports regarding a proposed change to Nigeria’s education system.
He clarified that the government has not scrapped Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS), despite some outlets claiming a new 12-year uninterrupted basic education model was being implemented.
Speaking after the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education in Abuja, Dr. Alausa explained that he put forward a proposal for a 12-year basic education model, suggesting a shift from the current 6-3-3-4 system to a 12-4 structure. This, he emphasised, was a point for discussion and not a confirmed policy change. He stressed that his suggestion was “presented for discussion and not an immediate policy change.”
The Minister clarified that the proposal aims to create 12 years of compulsory education, but within the existing 6-3-3 framework.
A key element of this is the removal of the examination hurdle between JSS and SSS, allowing students a smoother transition. However, this, too, remains open for debate.
The Ministry of Education, he confirmed, will spend the next eight months consulting with education stakeholders, including policymakers, state governments, teachers, parents, and other interested parties. A final decision on the proposed reform will be made at the National Council on Education meeting in October 2025.
Dr. Alausa urged the public to disregard reports suggesting JSS and SSS have been abolished. He reiterated the government’s dedication to improving access to quality education, whilst keeping in line with international best practice.
