The Federal Ministry of Education on Saturday clarified widespread misconceptions surrounding subject selection in the newly revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum, assuring students, parents, and school administrators that no restrictions have been imposed on subject choices.
The clarification was issued in Abuja on Saturday by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, Mrs Folasade Boriowo, following a surge of enquiries through calls, letters, and social media platforms over the implementation of the revised curriculum.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, explained that all subjects approved under the Senior Secondary School Curriculum remain fully available to students, irrespective of their chosen academic tracks. He emphasized that decisions on subject selection should be guided by school authorities in consultation with parents and certified school counselors to ensure alignment with students’ abilities, interests, and career aspirations.
The minister also highlighted the curriculum’s flexibility, noting that science students are free to select subjects traditionally classified under the arts and social sciences, while arts and social science students may equally choose science-based subjects.
Addressing confusion over Information and Communication Technology, Alausa clarified that the subject has only been renamed Digital Technology, with no change to its content or examination structure. Students who previously offered ICT, he said, remain eligible to sit for Digital Technology without additional requirements.
On trade subjects, the minister explained that while six trade subjects have been approved under the new curriculum, students are only expected to register for them if such subjects are offered in their schools and they have received proper instruction. He stressed that students in schools without trade subjects would not be penalized for failing to register any of the options.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to the smooth implementation of the revised curriculum nationwide, assuring stakeholders of continuous monitoring and support to schools, teachers, and students during the transition.