FG mulls inclusion of hair styling, phone repair, plumbing, others in new education curriculum

The Federal Ministry of Education announced on Monday that the new curriculum for basic education will be implemented across schools nationwide starting in January 2025.

Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, revealed this during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja. He also noted that the new curriculum for senior secondary education would take effect by September 2025.

Professor Mamman explained that the updated curriculum is designed to tackle learning challenges and improve employability by introducing modern skills acquisition programs. These programs aim to equip students with 21st-century skills, leading to broader economic benefits. Over the next three months, the focus will be on preparing teachers’ guides to support the curriculum’s rollout.

Dr. Garba Gandu, Director of Curriculum at the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), highlighted that the curriculum includes 15 new trade subjects to enhance global competitiveness. These subjects cover areas such as basic digital literacy, vocational entrepreneurship, and practical skills like building and construction, plumbing, tiling, hairstyling, makeup, GSM repairs, satellite and CCTV installation, and garment making.