Navigating crossroads after JSS: The choice between STEM and Arts

In Nigeria, the dust continues to settle on the recent Basic Education Certification Examination (BECE) results and the state equivalents, with celebrations (or commiserations). For students transitioning from Junior Secondary School (JSS) to Senior Secondary School (SSS), a far weightier decision looms: the choice between science, arts, and commercial streams.

The transition from JSS to SSS represents more than a mere progression in academic levels; it is a significant rite of passage, a critical juncture where young minds stand at crossroads, faced with a decision that will shape their future. This moment is a daunting milestone, fraught with possibilities and challenges, requiring thoughtful deliberation and guidance to ensure that each student embarks on a path that aligns with their talents, passions, and aspirations.

The decision is not merely about selecting subjects but about laying a foundation and charting a course for future career paths and personal development. The decision carries significant implications for a student’s academic workload, future educational opportunities, and career prospects. A wrong choice can lead to frustration, disillusionment, and academic failure.

Several factors contribute to the difficulty of making this decision. A key challenge is inadequate career guidance and counselling services in many Nigerian schools. Students often lack the necessary information and resources to make informed choices. They may be unaware of the full range of career options available within each track, or the specific skills and knowledge required for success. Additionally, there is a prevalence of societal stereotypes and misconceptions about each track.

These outdated labels and stereotypes often cloud each path. The science track is frequently perceived as the most prestigious and intellectually demanding, pigeonholed for the brainiacs. In contrast, the arts and commercial tracks are sometimes unfairly stigmatised as less rigorous or valuable. These stereotypes can unduly influence students’ choices, leading them to choose paths that may not align with their interests and aptitudes.

Layered on societal pressure are parental and peer pressure. Parents may have preconceived notions about which track is best for their children, based on their aspirations or societal expectations. Peers may also influence a student’s choice, leading them to follow the crowd rather than chart their own course.
Misconceptions not only narrow our understanding of the diverse possibilities within each field but also limit students’ dreams and ambitions. It is time to break free from these outdated beliefs and recognise each stream’s unique value to society. To make informed decisions, it’s crucial to consider a holistic view: students’ personal interests, strengths, career goals, and the expert guidance of educators and career counsellors.

The student’s genuine interests and passions should be at the core of the decision. Students must reflect on the subjects that spark their curiosity and joy. Parents and educators must recognise that true success and fulfilment come from pursuing what one loves. Imposing preconceived notions or societal expectations can stifle a student’s potential and enthusiasm. Academic strengths should significantly influence the choice of stream.

Aptitude tests and academic performance provide valuable insights into a student’s capabilities. A student excelling in mathematics and science may find a natural fit in the science stream, while one with strong analytical and numerical skills might thrive in the commercial stream. Understanding and aligning with these strengths can pave the way for academic success and personal satisfaction.

Career counselling can provide clarity and direction, helping students confidently navigate their aspirations. Professional counselling can transform the stream selection process. Schools should prioritise career counselling programmes offering comprehensive insights into career paths, educational requirements, and job prospects.

Career counsellors are critical in helping students explore their interests and strengths, providing personalised guidance that aligns with their unique profiles. Teachers and school counsellors, familiar with the student’s academic journey, can offer customised advice. Their insights and recommendations can guide students towards streams that align with their abilities and potential. Students should actively explore various career options linked to each stream. Researching professions, attending career fairs, and engaging with professionals can provide a clearer understanding of the educational pathways and job prospects.

Schools should establish robust career counselling programmes that provide students with comprehensive information about different career paths. Career counsellors can offer personalised guidance, helping students align their strengths and aspirations with suitable streams. Subject-specific aptitude tests can help identify students’ strengths and areas of interest. These assessments can provide a basis for discussions between students, parents, and educators, guiding the decision-making process.

Workshops and seminars with professionals from various fields can expose students to diverse career options and guest speakers from various professions can offer real-world insights, enriching students’ understanding of their options. Furthermore, schools may organise career fairs, shadow sessions, that provide comprehensive knowledge to students (and parents). These events can help students understand the real-world applications of different subjects, informing their choices.

Participation in extracurricular activities related to different streams can help students explore their interests and develop practical skills. Science clubs, literary societies, and business clubs can provide hands-on experiences that complement academic learning. Recognising that the decision at the end of JSS is not final is crucial. Students should have the flexibility to switch streams if their initial choice does not align with their evolving interests and strengths. Schools should support this adaptability, allowing students to make changes within a reasonable timeframe.
Parents often harbour strong preconceived notions about the prestige and potential of different streams. Parents must set aside biases about which stream is more prestigious or lucrative and support their child’s interests and strengths. Parents should engage in the decision-making process with an open mind, providing resources, facilitating discussions, and supporting their child’s aspirations.

As global emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) continues to grow, many Nigerian parents face a dilemma: should they push their children toward science, even if it may not align with their child’s strengths or interests? The societal pressure to prioritise STEM fields in Nigeria is immense.

STEM careers are often viewed as more prestigious and financially rewarding, which compels many parents to encourage their children towards science. The hope is for a secure and prosperous future, fuelled by the increasing demand for STEM professionals globally. However, this perspective can sometimes clash with the child’s inherent abilities and interests, leading to a mismatch that can harm their academic performance and overall well-being.

In the short term, students coerced into the science stream without the necessary aptitude may struggle significantly. The stress and anxiety from trying to meet unrealistic expectations can lead to emotional and mental health issues, including burnout and a general aversion to learning. Moreover, the lack of enjoyment and interest in their studies can further exacerbate these challenges, making the academic experience negative.

The long-term implications of such mismatched academic choices are profound. Students forced into unsuitable academic tracks may find themselves in unfulfilling careers that lack personal significance. This can lead to long-term job dissatisfaction and hinder professional advancement.

Students not passionate about their field of study are less likely to achieve high levels of success and fulfilment. Additionally, they might miss out on opportunities to develop and excel in areas where they have genuine talent and interest, stifling their potential and creativity.

Students often face the influence of their peers when making academic choices and may feel influenced by their friends’ choices. Understanding that every stream promises success and fulfilment can alleviate undue pressure and foster a supportive environment for informed decision-making. Students must make decisions based on their strengths and interests rather than succumbing to peer pressure. Schools can foster an environment that encourages individuality and informed decision-making.

Affirming individuality and fostering a culture of informed decision-making can help students choose based on their strengths and interests rather than external pressures. Schools can create a supportive community that celebrates diverse paths and personal growth. It is crucial to encourage students to conduct self-assessments to identify their interests, strengths, and career aspirations.

Reflecting on past academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal interests can provide valuable insights and inform decisions. As educators, parents and students navigate the crossroads, there is a need to prioritise the student’s interests and strengths over societal expectations. Support and open-mindedness from parents can significantly impact a student’s confidence and decision-making.Consideration of external factors such as the availability of resources, quality of teaching, and school infrastructure is also essential. Some schools may offer better facilities and experienced educators for specific streams, influencing the decision.

Choosing the right academic stream after JSS is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of a student’s interests, strengths, and career aspirations. By fostering open communication, providing comprehensive information, and supporting students throughout the decision-making process, parents, teachers, and schools can help students make informed and confident choices.

Additionally, students would benefit from self-reflection to identify interests, passions, strengths, and weaknesses and set realistic expectations. Seeking guidance from educators and career counsellors is crucial, as they can offer insights into each track, dispel misconceptions, and provide personalised advice based on individual profiles.

It’s equally important to research each track independently, talk to professionals in relevant fields, and consider personal aptitudes and interests while avoiding stereotypes. Parental support is invaluable, offering encouragement and guidance while respecting the student’s autonomy. Importantly, the path chosen after JSS isn’t set in stone.

Students should have the flexibility to change streams if their initial choice doesn’t resonate with their evolving interests and strengths. Schools should establish policies that allow for such transitions within a reasonable timeframe. The ultimate goal is to empower students to pursue their passions and achieve their full potential, regardless of their chosen stream.

As we guide our young minds through this critical juncture, let us celebrate their individuality, nurture their talents, and inspire them to dream big. In doing so, we lay the foundation for a generation of confident, capable, and passionate individuals ready to make their mark on the world. By recognising the weight of this decision, understanding its consequences, and navigating the process thoughtfully, parents can empower their children to reach their full potential.

Each child is unique, and their journey to success is best paved by aligning their strengths and passions with opportunities, fostering an environment where they can thrive academically, emotionally, and professionally.
Professor Olaniran, Proprietor of Jire Olaniran College, Ibadan, is a renowned educational leader in Nigeria.