For decades, Nigeria’s education system has been structured around six years of primary school, three years of junior secondary, and three years of senior secondary. But with global trends shifting towards a continuous 12-year basic education model, will it be the best option?
Students in primary school are excited to move on to Junior Secondary School, while those in JSS are focused on passing their Junior WAEC and narrowing their subjects to those needed for their future university courses.
Transitioning from one phase to another used to feel like an adventure, despite the challenges. But what does this 12-year basic education really offer? Vocational skills, extended academic knowledge, over-familiarity with teachers and peers, or stagnation?
A patriotic citizen, Olawale Lot says Nigerians may initially prefer to stick to JSS and SSS, especially since WAEC, NECO, and UTME are built around the current system. However, if the 12-year model provides clear advantages like better skill acquisition, vocational training, and reduced dropout rates, acceptance could grow over time.
Another citizen opines that the initiative will save students time and energy, as they would no longer need to study excessively for exams to advance to higher levels of education.
Meanwhile, from the perspective of an Educationist, Adejumobi Agunloye, policies should not be based on the preferences of Nigerians, as they may not be well-informed about education. Instead, policies should be formulated based on the nation’s pressing educational needs.
According to her “It doesn’t make much difference, as the most important thing is ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to basic education, especially since the country has the highest number of out-of-school children.”
She added “The government is what matters most and it only necessary that they prioritize need-based education that is accessible and suitable for all, empowering children who cannot read or write.”
Adejumobi however acknowledged that the plan could be beneficial, as it provides access to education and enables students to identify their career path early enough.
A 12-year basic education system could be more effective if it addresses fundamental educational needs, reduces dropout rates, and resolves structural gaps. Hopefully, the Nigerian government will successfully implement it and ensure that every child truly benefits from quality education.
