No restrictions on subject choices under new senior secondary curriculum – FG

The Federal Ministry of Education has issued comprehensive clarification on subject selection under the revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum, affirming that students face no restrictions in choosing from any of the approved subjects offered in their schools.

In a statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations on Saturday, the Ministry said the guidance became necessary following widespread enquiries from students, parents, school owners and administrators, as well as misinterpretations circulating across various platforms.

Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, and Sa’id Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, emphasised that all subjects remain fully accessible to students across all academic pathways.

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They explained that the revised curriculum is intentionally designed to be flexible, student-centred and supportive of diverse academic interests and career directions.

According to the Ministers, a science student may validly select subjects categorised under the arts or social sciences, just as arts and social science students may opt for science-related subjects.

They noted that such decisions must, however, be properly guided by school authorities, parents or certified counsellors to ensure informed academic choices.

Addressing concerns about the subject previously known as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the Ministry clarified that it has been renamed Digital Technology. The change, they stressed, is strictly a matter of nomenclature and does not alter the curriculum content.

Students who have been offering ICT remain fully eligible to register and sit for Digital Technology in forthcoming examinations.

On trade subjects, the Ministry explained that six approved trade subjects exist within the curriculum. Students may register for any of these only if their schools offer them and they have received instruction in the subject. It added that students who have not been taught any of the six trade subjects are under no obligation to register for a trade subject as a third elective.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to a smooth and inclusive implementation of the revised curriculum, the Ministry urged stakeholders, including parents, proprietors, counsellors and examination bodies to rely on verified information and provide accurate guidance to learners as WAEC registration continues nationwide.

The Ministry assured that it will continue to champion seamless, well-coordinated and student-focused registration processes across the country.

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