Nigeria Introduces 15 New Trades in Updated Basic Education Curriculum.
The Nigerian government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has introduced a revised Basic Education curriculum, adding 15 new trades aimed at enhancing practical skills and boosting employability for students.
The changes are set to take effect in January 2025, applying to primary and junior secondary students across all 36 states.
New Trades Added to Curriculum
The curriculum overhaul includes the incorporation of the following 15 trades:
- Plumbing
- Tiling and floor works
- Event management
- Garment making
- Digital literacy
- Solar installation
- Agriculture and production
- POP installation
- Bakery and confectioneries
- Hairstyling
- Makeup
- Interior design
- Satellite/TV antenna installation
- GSM repair
- CCTV and intercom installation and maintenance
These additions aim to bridge the skills gap in the country’s workforce, equipping students with relevant practical knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. The updated curriculum will be implemented in January 2025, providing students with skills that are expected to be crucial for both local and international employment opportunities.
Social Media Reactions to the Curriculum Update
The announcement of these changes has sparked a range of reactions from Nigerians across social media. Many have expressed approval of the initiative, acknowledging its potential to significantly improve the country’s educational landscape.
One social media user, Arewaworld Global, commended the government’s approach but suggested adding history to the curriculum as a means of building a stronger future through understanding the past.
Others, like Olúwaníṣọlá Moṣerere Ọpẹ́yẹmí, praised the update, with one user commenting, “Now you are talking about education.” Musa Boleizigha agreed, calling it a good move, while ISK expressed excitement, noting that the country was addressing long-standing issues that hindered growth.
Omotosho Kaysmart also recognized the importance of these updates but urged the government to consider overhauling the curriculum at the tertiary level. “We are now in a digital age where tomorrow’s technology should be used to fight today’s war,” he stated.
Despite the overall positive reception, some raised concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing the new trades. Mustapha Adeitan highlighted the importance of ensuring qualified teachers are available to teach these subjects, while seyi ajayi expressed concern about overburdening schools that already face shortages of staff and inadequate facilities.
Further Reforms in the Education Sector
In a related development, the Nigerian government is also planning to launch a new primary school curriculum on October 10, 2024. This initiative aims to address societal reorientation and regenerate Nigeria’s social values.
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Dr. Tanko Sununu, the Minister of State for Education, emphasized that the updated curriculum would not only equip students with academic skills but also foster the moral values needed to contribute positively to society.
As Nigeria prepares to implement these reforms, there is widespread recognition of the potential impact they could have on the nation’s future workforce. The focus on practical, vocational skills is expected to provide students with the tools they need for successful careers, helping to reduce youth unemployment and drive economic growth.
Nigeria Introduces 15 New Trades in Updated Basic Education Curriculum
