FG to Abolish JSS-SSS Split Amid 20 Million Dropouts

The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to abolish the policy that separates junior secondary schools (JSS) from senior secondary schools (SSS), following the revelation that 20 million children are unable to progress to senior secondary education. Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, disclosed this plan during the inauguration of a Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) monitoring committee in Abuja.

The current policy has led to a severe mismatch in the number of primary schools and junior secondary schools, resulting in overcrowded classrooms and underutilized senior secondary schools. The situation is particularly evident in Kaduna State, where the policy has been deemed unsuccessful.

Alausa emphasized the need for reform to improve educational access for Nigerian children and stated that the proposal to abolish the policy will be presented to the National Council on Education for approval. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance enrollment and learning outcomes across the nation, with a commitment to ensure that every Nigerian child receives quality education.