FG launches new scheme to boost quality of secondary education

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Let’s talk about it — Nigeria’s secondary education system has been facing serious issues for years. From underfunded science labs to overpopulated classrooms and low national exam pass rates, it’s been tough. That’s why the Federal Government’s newly launched scheme to improve the quality of secondary education comes as a breath of fresh air.

Overview of the New FG Scheme for Secondary Education

Launched in early 2025, this ambitious program was announced by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with UBEC, WAEC, NECO, and other key stakeholders. The new scheme aims to holistically overhaul Nigeria’s secondary education structure, with a focus on science, digital literacy, infrastructure, and equity.

Key Challenges in Secondary Education Today

The issues are widespread:

Poor facilities in many schools, especially in rural areas
Insufficient qualified teachers, especially for STEM subjects
High exam failure rates, particularly in WAEC and NECO
Large numbers of school dropouts due to poverty and poor motivation

Primary Goals of the New Scheme

The government’s goals are straightforward and targeted:

Core Components of the New Scheme

Infrastructure Upgrades: Renovation of over 500 secondary school buildings nationwide.
ICT Integration: Digital classrooms, e-libraries, and computer-based tests.
Teacher Training: Monthly virtual and in-person capacity-building workshops.
STEM Focus: Special funding for science labs and technical education.

Target Beneficiaries of the Scheme

Students in both junior and senior secondary levels
Public school teachers in need of re-certification
School heads and inspectors managing policy execution

Funding and Resource Allocation

The initiative is jointly funded by:

TETFUND (Tertiary Education Trust Fund)
Federal Budget Allocations
Grants from UNESCO and World Bank

National Curriculum Overhaul

A new curriculum is also being introduced to replace outdated materials. Some highlights include:

Coding and Robotics from JSS1
Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship as core electives
Ethics, Civic Engagement, and Mental Health education

Digital Learning and Smart Classroom Deployment

In partnership with private edtech firms like EduTech and LearnAfrica, schools will receive:

Tablets and smart boards
Access to national online syllabus portals
Wi-Fi-enabled classrooms in pilot states

Role of State Governments in Implementation

States must:

Submit implementation proposals
Nominate focal schools per senatorial district
Report quarterly progress via dashboards

Teachers as Frontline Reformers

No good policy works without teachers. Key benefits for teachers include:

Access to performance-based incentives
Certification bonuses
Sabbatical exchange opportunities with other African countries

Stakeholder Voices and Testimonials

Mrs. Musa, Principal, Abuja: “We’ve waited a long time for this level of support.”
Ibrahim, SS2 Student, Sokoto: “I now want to be an engineer!”
Parent in Lagos: “We finally feel like our children have a fighting chance.”

Pilot States and Early Results

Pilot rollout in Lagos, Kano, Enugu, and Plateau states has shown:

23% increase in student digital literacy
Reduction in absenteeism
Higher teacher satisfaction rates

Addressing Dropout Rates and Gender Disparity

Special programs include:

Girls in STEM Bootcamps
School re-entry policies for teenage mothers
Financial support for low-income families

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Accountability

National Education Dashboards track KPIs
Anonymous reporting channels for mismanagement
Monthly performance scorecards by state

Public Engagement and Media Involvement

The scheme is being actively promoted on:

National TV and radio
YouTube education channels
Social media via the hashtag #RevampNaijaSchools

Conclusion

If Nigeria is serious about global competitiveness, fixing secondary education must be non-negotiable. This new FG scheme isn’t just a plan — it’s a promise. And it’ll take everyone — from teachers to parents, policymakers to private tech firms — to bring it to life.

FAQs

1. When will the new curriculum start?
Rollout begins in the 2025/2026 academic year.

2. Will students receive devices?
Yes. Tablets are being distributed to JSS1 and SS1 students in public schools.

3. What about private schools?
While the scheme targets public schools, some resources may be shared with low-cost private schools.

4. Are there job opportunities tied to the scheme?
Yes. Roles in teaching, tech support, project monitoring, and school administration are opening.

5. How can the public track spending?
Via the Ministry’s public dashboard and quarterly media briefings.

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