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Breaking News: Nigeria Revamps Education System with 15 New Skill Acquisition Programs

Razaq Ivori 

In a bold move to empower students with practical skills, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the introduction of 15 skill acquisition programs into the curriculum of Primary and Junior Secondary schools ¹. This groundbreaking initiative, set to commence in the 2025 academic year, will enable students to choose one skill and acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge over nine years, from Primary 1 to JSS 3.

*The 15 Skill Courses:*

- _Plumbing_

- _Tiling and Floor Works_

- _POP 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)_

To ensure the success of this program, teachers will undergo training, retraining, and employment in both public and private schools nationwide ². This comprehensive approach will equip educators with the necessary skills to effectively impart knowledge to students.

According to Tahir Mamman, Minister of Education, the goal is to produce a highly skilled and educated workforce, equipped with entrepreneurial skills to break the cycle of poverty and guarantee sustainable economic growth and global competitiveness ¹. This reform is part of the government's efforts to address the learning crisis at basic education levels and promote skills development and acquisition.

By introducing these skill acquisition programs, Nigeria is taking a significant step towards empowering its youth with practical skills, enhancing their employability, and driving economic growth.