FG to Abolish JSS, SSS Separation Policy Amid Dropouts

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to abolish the separation policy between Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) and Senior Secondary Schools (SSS) following alarming data indicating that 20 million pupils drop out before reaching senior secondary level. This decision was announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the inauguration of the UBEC Ministerial Implementation Monitoring Committee in Abuja on Tuesday.

The current policy, which requires JSS and SSS to operate separately, has been criticized for failing to meet its objectives, contributing to overcrowding in JSS facilities and underutilization of SSS facilities. Dr. Alausa cited Kaduna State as an example of the policy's failure.

The proposed abolition will be tabled at the next National Council on Education meeting, aiming to expand access and improve learning outcomes. Additionally, Alausa acknowledged past failures in addressing transition rates and emphasized the need for state governments to rectify these issues.

The committee, chaired by Prof. Rashid Aderinoy, is tasked with overseeing UBEC funds for various educational projects.