No Immediate Implementation of 12-Year Basic Education Model – Education Ministry

By Akonasu Gbedozin  The Federal Ministry of Education has refuted claims that a new 12-year basic education model is being implemented imme...

By Akonasu Gbedozin 

The Federal Ministry of Education has refuted claims that a new 12-year basic education model is being implemented immediately, clarifying that the proposal remains under review.  

In a statement released on Friday, the ministry emphasized that Education Minister Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa only presented the idea for discussion, not as an immediate policy shift. Reports suggesting that the Junior and Senior Secondary School structure has been scrapped were described as inaccurate.  

According to the Director of Press, Folasade Boriowo, the proposal was introduced during an Extraordinary National Council on Education Meeting held on February 6, 2025, in Abuja. It aims to transition to a seamless 12-year compulsory education system while maintaining the existing 6-3-3 structure. A significant aspect of the plan involves removing the examination barrier between Junior and Senior Secondary Schools to facilitate smoother academic progression.  

However, the ministry stressed that the proposal is still in its early stages. Over the next eight months, consultations will be held with key stakeholders, including state governments, education policymakers, teachers, and parents. A final decision is expected at the National Council on Education meeting in October 2025.  

“The ministry urges the public to disregard misinformation regarding the scrapping of JSS and SSS. The Federal Government remains committed to policies that enhance access to quality education while aligning with global best practices,” the statement concluded.