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NIGERIA REVAMPS EDUCATION SYSTEM WITH NEW 12-YEAR BASIC EDUCATION MODEL

The Federal Government has unveiled a groundbreaking reform of the country’s education system, introducing a compulsory 12-year basic education model. This innovative approach replaces the traditional 6-3-3-4 structure, merging junior and senior secondary schools into a single, uninterrupted 12-year program. According to Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, this bold move aims to standardize education nationwide, providing students with a solid foundation for future success. “By extending basic education to 12 years, we ensure that our students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for higher learning and the workforce,” Dr. Alausa explained. The new model is designed to align Nigeria’s education system with global best practices, facilitating early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills. Dr. Alausa emphasized that this approach will enable students to acquire essential knowledge and skills before specializing at tertiary levels. To further support this initiative, the government proposes establishing 16 years as the minimum entry age for tertiary institutions. This move aims to reduce dropout rates, mitigate financial barriers, and ensure that students are better equipped to succeed in higher education. The successful implementation of this reform relies on a multifaceted approach, including policy reforms, infrastructure development, teacher training, and enhanced funding and partnerships. As Nigeria embarks on this ambitious journey, stakeholders are optimistic that the new education model will yield improved learning outcomes, drive economic growth, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.

GOVERNOR DIRI VISITS SCHOOLS, EXPRESSES DISPLEASURE AT STATE OF INFRASTRUCTURE

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed disappointment at the state of facilities in some public schools in the state. This came after an unscheduled visit to Saint Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Amarata-Yenagoa, and the Ijaw National Academy, Kaiama in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area. Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, in a statement, noted that Governor Diri directed the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, to immediately address dilapidated structures in schools across the state. The governor also expressed concern over the absence of sporting facilities, uncompleted dining hall, and the state of hostels at the Ijaw National Academy. Alabrah stated that Governor Diri restated his administration’s commitment to developing the education sector, given its importance to nation-building. Daniel Alabrah stated that Governor Diri will undertake more unscheduled visits to schools and other government departments to see things for himself. He called on relevant officials to take maintenance of public facilities more seriously. Governor Diri said, “I have been to Saint Jude’s and I am here at the Ijaw National Academy. I am not satisfied with what I have seen… If schools that are in the urban, motorable areas are in this state, how would those in the rural, riverine communities be like?” Alabrah noted that the governor, who was a teacher, returned to the classroom at the Ijaw National Academy to teach senior secondary students preparing for Government as a subject in the upcoming WASC examination. Alabrah stated that Governor Diri directed the Commissioner for Education to ensure that the Ijaw National Academy is rehabilitated and that the completed basketball court be handed over to the school authorities in Saint Jude’s by Friday.