The Nigerian government is scheduled to meet with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS) on Wednesday to discuss the Minister of Education Tunji Alausa's proposal to extend basic education to 12 years.
The proposal suggests integrating junior and senior secondary education into a single, continuous program, which has led to varied reactions from education stakeholders who are advocating for thorough deliberation before any decisions are implemented.
The National President of ANCOPPS, Musa Ibrahim, stated that the proposal is still just an idea and has not yet been enacted into law. Ibrahim also said that the meeting in Abuja would allow for more in-depth discussions.
"The minister has made a proposal, but it’s not a law yet. He has simply suggested it, and we haven’t had the chance to discuss it thoroughly. We’re not backing or rejecting this policy change just yet. What we need to do is look at the blueprint, whether it’s 12 years, nine years, or 10 years—it all depends,” Ibrahim stated.
Similarly, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Audu Amber, emphasized the need for further analysis before making any definitive comments. “Thank God you said it’s a proposal. Since the day before yesterday, I’ve not been talking because all the media houses, both print and broadcast, have been calling me for our comment. I don’t want to comment now because until I get the full picture and intentions of the government, I can’t speak on it,” Amber said.
Conversely, the National Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association, Haruna Danjuma, voiced support for the proposal, suggesting it could decrease student dropout rates and enhance skill acquisition among learners.
