The Federal Government has issued a crucial clarification to ease concerns among students, parents, and school administrators regarding subject selection for the upcoming West African Examinations Council (WAEC) tests. This follows the implementation of the newly revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum.
Ministers Reaffirm Student Choice and Flexibility
In a joint statement released on Saturday, December 6, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Sa’id Suwaiba Ahmad, provided clear guidance. They emphasized that all approved subjects remain fully available for students to choose from.
The ministers stressed that choices must be made with proper guidance from school authorities, parents, or certified school counsellors. They explicitly stated that the curriculum is designed to be flexible and student-centred, allowing for diverse academic and career paths.
"All subjects remain fully open for students to choose from, provided such choices are properly guided," the ministers affirmed.
Cross-Disciplinary Freedom and Digital Technology Update
A key point of clarification addressed the ability for students to mix subjects across different streams. The government confirmed that students enrolled in science subjects are free to select courses from the social sciences or arts. Similarly, students in arts and social sciences can opt for science-related subjects.
Regarding a notable change in the curriculum, the ministers explained that the subject formerly known as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been renamed to Digital Technology. They assured stakeholders that this is purely a change in terminology and does not alter the core content taught. Students who have studied ICT are still fully eligible to register for and sit the Digital Technology examination.
Guidance on Vocational Subjects and a Call for Accurate Information
The Ministry of Education also provided updates on vocational offerings. Under the updated curriculum, six trade-related courses have received official approval. A student may register for any of these subjects if their school offers them and they have been taught the content.
However, the statement offered reassurance: "Where a student has not been exposed to or offered any of the six trade subjects, there is no obligation for such a student to register for any trade subject as a third subject."
Reiterating its commitment to the education sector, the Federal Government urged parents, school owners, counsellors, and examination bodies to rely on accurate and verified information. They called for proper guidance to students during this transition period and promised a smooth, accurate, and well-coordinated registration process nationwide.
