Federal Government has scrapped the four-decade long Junior (JSS) and Senior (SSS) model in secondary education, in a major reform of the country’s basic education programme.

This is also the government introduced a 12-year continuous and uninterrupted programme in the basic education system that also includes primary levels.

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In effect, the 6-3-3-4 which includes six years of split JSS and SSS model, concluding with a four-year tertiary education, is now to be replaced by a 12-year straight programme leading up the last four years of tertiary education, with the merging of the six-year split secondary system.

Announcing the reform during the inauguration of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee, in Abuja, Tuesday, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the reform is aimed at improving access to education, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and ensuring that every Nigerian child receives 12 years of continuous, quality education before progressing to tertiary institutions or vocational training.

Alausa said the new model is designed to eliminate the transition barriers between junior and senior secondary education, which have contributed to high dropout rates among students.

He explained that the uninterrupted 12-year system would provide a more seamless learning experience, strengthen foundational and vocational skills, and improve student retention across the country.

According to the minister, the reform seeks to standardise curriculum delivery, enhance education quality, and better align Nigeria’s school system with global best practices.

The 6-3-3-4 system was introduced in 1982. Under the new arrangement, the JSS and SSS divisions will be merged into a single 12-year basic education programme.

The Federal Government said implementation of the policy will involve curriculum reforms, teacher training, adjustments to school administration, and collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders.