Abuja:The Federal Government is working toward implementing a new curriculum in tertiary institutions, focusing on 80% practical and 20% theoretical education. This reform is aimed at enhancing students’ skills and preparing them for the labor market.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Maruf Alausa, the Minister of Education, represented by Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, the Minister of State for Education, announced this initiative at the 2026 National Town Hall Meeting of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) in Abuja. The meeting, with the theme ‘Investing in Nigeria’s Future Tertiary Education, Human Capital and National Development,’ gathered stakeholders to discuss the future of tertiary education and national progress.
Alausa stated that the proposed reform would transition from the current model of 70% theory and 30% practical training to a more hands-on approach. The aim is to enhance competencies in fields such as modern agriculture, agribusiness, food production, and post-harvest management. The curriculum changes are designed to be more practical, competency-based, and aligned with technological advancements and industry needs.
The review process has resulted in 33 new and revised National Diploma and Higher National Diploma curricula, three National Certificate in Education curricula, and 31 National Occupational Standards. Alausa emphasized the importance of aligning investments in infrastructure, staff training, and laboratory equipment with suitable curricula to equip students with relevant skills.
The minister praised TETFund for its role in human capital development through investments in infrastructure, research, staff development, and innovation. He highlighted the need for stronger partnerships among TETFund, regulatory agencies, tertiary institutions, the private sector, and development partners to enhance educational quality.
Alausa also stressed the importance of ensuring financial challenges do not hinder disadvantaged Nigerians from accessing and completing tertiary education. The ministry is committed to collaborating with TETFund and other stakeholders to promote demand-driven research, digital transformation, staff development, and inclusive education.
Mr. Sunday Echono, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, noted that over 480 projects across the country are ready for commissioning, including 14 projects at the Federal University of Aeronautics in Ezia on October 16. Echono highlighted the establishment of a Student Innovation fund to assist students with promising ideas and connect them with industries for commercial production. Additionally, TETFund is supporting the construction of modern student hostels, providing transportation, expanding research investments, and improving access to digital learning resources.