Nigeria adds 15 new trade subjects to basic education curriculum  

The Nigerian government has introduced 15 new trade subjects into its basic education curriculum to equip students with critical skills for the job market.

The updated curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical, hands-on expertise.

According to the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the new curriculum will take effect in January 2025.

“Nigeria’s Basic Education curriculum updated! 15 new trades were added to boost students’ practical skills & employability. Takes effect Jan 2025 for primary & junior secondary students,” NOA announced on its ‘X’ page.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman described the initiative as a transformative step toward aligning the education system with the demands of the 21st-century economy.

“This reform is a bold move to prepare our students for local and global opportunities by providing them with practical skills,” he said.

The 15 trade subjects include plumbing, tiling and floor works, event management, garment making, digital literacy, solar installation, and agriculture.

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Students will be encouraged to learn one or two trades alongside their core academic subjects, according to the Ministry of Education.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, praised the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) for expediting the curriculum review process despite significant challenges.

He stressed that the initiative would ensure students graduate with skills that meet the economic and industrial needs of their regions.

Acting Executive Secretary of NERDC, Dr Margret Lawani, added that the updated curriculum would include over 20 occupational subjects tailored to Nigeria’s regional and economic priorities.

“Our goal is to prepare students for industries of the future while addressing unemployment challenges,” she explained.

Preparations are already underway to train teachers, develop infrastructure, and integrate technology to support the new curriculum.