The Federal Ministry of Education announced on Monday that the new curriculum for basic education will be implemented across schools nationwide starting January 2025. The Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, made this known during a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, also revealing that the new curriculum for senior secondary education will take effect by September 2025.

Professor Mamman emphasized that the updated curriculum is designed to tackle issues related to learning crises and employability. It aims to equip students with 21st-century skills through the introduction of various skills acquisition programs. He also mentioned that the next three months will be dedicated to preparatory activities, including the development of teachers' guides to facilitate the curriculum’s implementation.

Dr. Garba Gandu, Director of Curriculum at the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), highlighted that the new curriculum will focus on providing essential skills and training to enhance students' global competitiveness. The curriculum introduces 15 new trade subjects for basic education, covering areas like digital literacy, vocational entrepreneurship, and practical skills.

These subjects include basic digital literacy such as information technology, as well as vocational skills in areas like building and construction, plumbing, and tiling. Additional courses cover hospitality skills such as hairstyling and makeup, as well as technical services like GSM repairs, satellite and CCTV installation, and garment making, among others.