FG to Engage NUT, Principals on Proposed 12-Year Basic Education Policy

 The Federal Government is set to hold discussions with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS) on Wednesday to deliberate on the proposal by the Minister of Education, Mr. Tunji Alausa, to extend basic education to 12 years.

The proposal, which seeks to merge junior and senior secondary education into a continuous learning cycle, has sparked mixed reactions among education stakeholders. Many believe the initiative requires thorough analysis before implementation.

Speaking on the matter, ANCOPPS National President, Musa Ibrahim, clarified that the policy remains a proposal and has not yet been passed into law.

“The minister has suggested this reform, but it has not been finalized. We need to carefully evaluate whether a 12-year structure, a 9-year structure, or an alternative model best serves the education system,” Ibrahim stated.

Similarly, the NUT National President, Audu Amber, stressed the need for extensive consultations before making a conclusive statement on the policy.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association, Haruna Danjuma, expressed support for the proposal, noting that it could reduce student dropout rates and enhance skill acquisition. He highlighted that vocational training would be integrated from primary four, equipping students with practical skills alongside academic learning.