Abuja: The Federal Government has urged the public to ignore misleading claims about the newly revised curricula, asserting that they are needs-driven, evidence-based, and aligned with best practices. The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) clarified this through a statement by its Executive Secretary, Prof. Salisu Shehu, highlighting the misinformation spreading on social media intended to confuse and incite emotions.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Education recently announced the approved New Revised Basic Education Curriculum (BEC) and Senior Secondary Education Curriculum (SSEC). This announcement included a framework and authentic subject listings to guide educational institutions appropriately. NAN reports that primary school pupils from Primary 1-3 can take 9 to 10 subjects, while those in Primary 4-6 can take 10 to 12 subjects. Junior Secondary School students can offer 12 to 14 subjects, Senior Secondary levels range from 8 to 9 subjects, and technical schools can offer 9 to 11 subjects.
Prof. Shehu emphasized that curriculum development is crucial for delivering educational content, acquiring knowledge and skills, as well as achieving positive outcomes and national development. He noted that the curriculum reform is part of the National Education Sector Renewal Initiatives (NESRI) and aligns with requirements for periodic educational content reviews. The revised curricula incorporate best practices, global developments, and local contexts, resulting from extensive stakeholder engagement and consultation.
The executive secretary urged the public to dismiss any speculations on the matter and commended the constructive feedback from stakeholders and Nigerians committed to educational advancement.