The Federal Government through the Ministry of Education has reiterated its commitment to delivering a revamped curriculum for basic and senior secondary education in Nigeria.
The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman spoke at the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) Stakeholders’ Dialogue and High-Level Policy Committee Meeting for the review of the Basic Education Curriculum in Abuja on Thursday.
According to the minister, the initiative aims to tackle the ongoing learning crisis and prepare Nigerian students with essential skills for the future, emphasising that there is no going back on this crucial educational reform.
Mamman, represented by the Minister of State for Education, Dr Tanko Sununu, analysed the severity of Nigeria’s learning crisis, noting that the country is disproportionately affected.
“Reports indicate that one out of five children globally is out of school, and tragically, that one child is often Nigerian,” he stated.
He further pointed out that the situation is exacerbated by poor numeracy skills, inadequate learning outcomes, and a lack of critical thinking abilities among Nigerian students, all of which hinder national development.
“Out of four children in Nigeria, at least one suffers from poor numeracy, learning, and critical thinking skills. These are factors that retard our national progress, and it is imperative that we collectively address them,” Mamman added.
The new curriculum, once completed and implemented, aims to expose learners at the basic education level to various skill development opportunities, including those that foster job creation.
“This curriculum will encourage independent thinking, innovation, and problem-solving among learners, preparing them to tackle societal challenges,” Mamman explained.
He also stressed that one of the administration’s critical priorities is revitalizing the education sector to create a vibrant workforce capable of seizing economic opportunities both within and outside the country.
The curriculum review is vital, he said, as it requires a shift in teaching methods to enhance students’ understanding and perception.