In a significant move to empower the future workforce and enhance the employability of students, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the integration of 15 skill acquisition courses into the curriculum of Primary and Junior Secondary Schools across the country. Starting from the 2025 academic year, students will be able to select one skill to study from Primary 1 through to Junior Secondary 3 (JSS3), ensuring that by the time they complete their education, they will have both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in their chosen field.
This groundbreaking initiative is designed to address the skills gap in Nigeria by fostering a generation of students who are not only academically inclined but also possess hands-on expertise in various trades and technologies.
The 15 Skill Acquisition Courses
The new curriculum will offer students the opportunity to choose from the following 15 skill courses:
- Plumbing
- Tiling and Floor Works
- POP (Plaster of Paris) Installation
- Event Decoration and Management
- Bakery and Confectioneries
- Hairstyling
- Makeup
- Interior Design
- GSM Repairs
- Satellite/TV Antenna Installation
- CCTV, Intercom Installation, and Maintenance
- Solar Installation and Maintenance
- Garment Making
- Agriculture and Processing (including crop production, beekeeping, horticulture, sheep and goat farming, poultry, and rabbit farming)
- Basic Digital Literacy (IT and Robotics)
These courses are tailored to meet the diverse needs of the Nigerian economy, with a focus on practical skills that can directly contribute to individual and national development.
Training and Employment of Teachers
To ensure the success of this program, the government will invest in the training and retraining of teachers across both public and private schools. New educators will also be recruited to handle these courses, ensuring that every student, regardless of their school type, has access to high-quality education in these skills.
The Impact of Skill Acquisition on Education
The introduction of skill acquisition into the school system is a strategic move to align the country’s education with current industry demands. By equipping students with both academic and practical skills, the Federal Government aims to:
- Foster entrepreneurship and self-reliance among young Nigerians
- Equip students with marketable skills that will improve their chances in the job market
- Reduce youth unemployment by promoting skills-based employment
- Improve the nation’s competitiveness in global industries by developing a workforce proficient in technology and other practical sectors.
Looking Forward
With this new policy, Nigeria is taking a bold step towards a more inclusive and practical education system. Students, parents, and educators can look forward to a future where education goes beyond the classroom, empowering students to build careers in various trades and technologies.
As the program rolls out in 2025, there will be a continuous evaluation to ensure its relevance and effectiveness, with periodic updates to the curriculum based on emerging trends in the global job market.
The Federal Government remains committed to building a robust educational foundation that provides Nigerian students with the skills necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving world.
