Understanding the 6-3-3-4 System of Education in Nigeria: A Comprehensive PDF Guide
The education system of Nigeria is a four-tier system comprising of primary, junior secondary, senior secondary, and tertiary levels. The 6-3-3-4 system, which is the currently adopted educational system in Nigeria, has been in existence since 1982. Understanding the system is necessary, especially for students, teachers, and parents, as it affects the education curriculum and the learning process.
Introduction
The 6-3-3-4 educational system in Nigeria was introduced to replace the earlier 6-5-4 system, which was based on six years of primary, five years of secondary, and four years of tertiary education. The current system has four distinct levels with a duration that spans for at least six years in primary, three years in junior secondary, three years in senior secondary, and four years in tertiary education.
Primary Education (6 years)
The primary education level is the foundation of the Nigerian educational system, and it provides a basic understanding of essential skills, such as numeracy, literacy, and creativity, to pupils aged six to twelve. Pupils are also taught life skills, including social and moral values, and encouraged to explore their interests and talents. With the recent introduction of technology in education, pupils are also taught how to use various devices and carry out basic computer operations.
Junior Secondary Education (3 years)
Upon completing primary school, pupils proceed to the junior secondary level, where they receive further education and skill development from ages twelve to fifteen. The junior secondary curriculum includes subjects, such as mathematics, English language, basic science, technology, social studies, and civic education. Pupils are also offered the option of choosing creative art, agricultural science, business studies, tech drawing, or home economics as elective subjects.
Senior Secondary Education (3 years)
At the senior secondary level, students aged fifteen to eighteen continue their education from junior secondary level. The curriculum is based on core subjects that include mathematics, English language, sciences, social studies, and vocational or technical subjects. Senior secondary students are also offered the opportunity to choose from various elective subjects, such as commerce, the art, additional mathematics, technical drawing, or catering craft. At the end of senior secondary school, students are required to write the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), which is the standardized qualification for progression into higher education.
Tertiary Education (4 years)
Tertiary education in Nigeria consists of universities, polytechnics, monotechnics, and other higher institutions that are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) or the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). Tertiary institutions offer undergraduate degree programs that span for at least four years, depending on the course of study. Degrees awarded by tertiary institutions include Bachelor of Sciences (B.Sc.), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), Master of Science (M.Sc.), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Admission to tertiary institutions is based on students’ performance in the WASSCE or its equivalent.
Conclusion
The 6-3-3-4 system of education in Nigeria provides a comprehensive structure for human capital development. It ensures that students receive quality education and increases their chances for employment and career advancement. The system creates an excellent opportunity for students to pursue their interests, explore various careers, and develop their potential. Through the effective implementation of the system, Nigeria can overcome economic and technological challenges and become a powerhouse in education and innovation.
References
Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council. (2021). 6-3-3-4 System of Education in Nigeria A Comprehensive PDF Guide. retrieved from https://www.nerdc.gov.ng/6-3-3-4-education-system-in-nigeria/.
Babalola, J. B. (2016). The Evaluation of Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 System of Education: Concept, Context, and Performance. Nigerian Journal of Educational Administration and Planning, 16(2), 77-86.
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