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The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, chaired the 2025 Extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss critical issues in Nigeria’s education system.
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The meeting focused on policy reforms, curriculum development, funding mechanisms, and strategies to improve access to quality education.
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The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, as well as Commissioners of Education from the 36 states, were in attendance.
Key Discussions and Resolutions
1. Indigenous Language and Basic Education
The council emphasized the importance of incorporating indigenous languages into the education system to enhance foundational learning.
2. Approval of the Draft National Policy on Education Bullying
A memo seeking approval for a draft national policy on bullying in Nigerian schools, along with implementation guidelines, was presented and approved. The policy aims to create a safer learning environment for students.
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3. Framework for Transitioning Federal Science and Technical Colleges (FSTCs) to Federal Technical Colleges (FTCs)
The council reviewed and approved a framework for transitioning FSTCs into FTCs to strengthen technical education and align with industry needs.
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4. Revitalization of Vocational Enterprises Institutions (VEIs) and Skills Training Centres (STCs)
A proposal to revitalize VEIs and STCs was discussed, focusing on improving vocational training and skill acquisition for employment and entrepreneurship.
5. Funding and Curriculum Development for Sustainable Basic Education
Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa highlighted the importance of direct funding for schools, removing bureaucratic bottlenecks within the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to ensure effective financial management and resource allocation.
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6. Reforming the Almajiri Education System
Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, emphasized the need to reform the Almajiri education system. She advocated for integrating modern education with religious studies to improve literacy and socio-economic opportunities.
7. Enhancing Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) and Girls’ Education
The council underscored the need for increased investment in TVET and strategies to promote girls’ education. Sensitization through media publicity was recommended as a key measure to drive awareness and encourage participation.
Stakeholders’ Contributions
Commissioners of Education from the 36 states actively participated in discussions, offering insights and recommendations on addressing challenges in basic education and improving policy implementation.
Presentation and Adoption of the Communiqué
The meeting concluded with the presentation and adoption of a communiqué, summarizing the key decisions and strategies for implementation.
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Conclusion
The 2025 Extraordinary NCE meeting reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s education sector through policy reforms, increased funding, and curriculum enhancement. The resolutions adopted are expected to drive significant improvements in access, quality, and sustainability in education nationwide