FG Clarifies Subject Options in Senior Secondary Curriculum

The Federal Government (FG) has responded to concerns regarding subject choices under the newly revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum, as students continue to enroll for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

In a statement released on Saturday, Education Minister Maruf Tunji Alausa, together with the Minister of State for Education, Sa’id Suwaiba Ahmad, assured the public that there are no limitations or restrictions on the subjects available for student selection from the approved options.

“All subjects remain entirely available for students to select, as long as these selections are properly guided by the school authority, parents, or a certified school counselor,” stated the ministers.

The ministers further clarified that students focusing on science can select subjects from the social sciences or arts fields, just as students in the arts and social sciences can choose courses typically linked to the sciences. They emphasized that the revised curriculum aims to be flexible, student-centered, and adaptable to various academic interests and career ambitions.

Concerning Information and Communication Technology, the ministers confirmed that the subject has been rebranded as Digital Technology. They reassured that this is merely a change in terminology and does not affect the content of the curriculum. Students who have previously studied ICT can still register for and take the Digital Technology exam.

The Ministry also addressed inquiries about vocational subjects, revealing that six trade-related courses have been officially recognized as part of the updated curriculum.

“A student may register for any of these subjects if the school offers them and the student has been taught that subject. However, if a student has not been exposed to or offered any of the six trade subjects, there is no requirement for such a student to register for a trade subject as a third option,” the statement indicated.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the education sector, the Ministry urged parents, school proprietors, counselors, and examination bodies to rely on accurate, verified information and provide appropriate guidance to students during this transition.

The Ministry assured that the Federal Government is dedicated to facilitating a smooth, precise, and well-organized registration process nationwide.