The Federal Government has moved to clear the air on subject selection under the revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum, assuring parents, schools and candidates registering for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) that there are no restrictions on subject choices.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Sa’id Suwaiba Ahmad, said students are free to pick any subjects from the list of approved options, provided their choices are properly guided by school authorities, parents, or certified counsellors.
“All subjects remain fully open for students to choose from,” the ministers stated, emphasising that the redesigned curriculum aims to promote flexibility and allow learners to follow their academic strengths and career interests.
The ministers explained that science students may now select subjects from the arts or social sciences, just as arts and social sciences students are permitted to choose from traditionally science-based subjects. They described this freedom as essential to a modern, student-centred curriculum capable of supporting diverse educational pathways.
On technology-related subjects, the Ministry confirmed that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been renamed Digital Technology, noting that the change is purely terminological and does not alter the content taught in schools. Students who previously offered ICT remain eligible to register and sit for Digital Technology in the forthcoming examinations.
Addressing concerns about vocational education, the government announced that six trade subjects have been approved under the updated curriculum. However, registration for these subjects is optional.
“A student may register for any of these subjects if the school offers them and the student has been taught the subject. However, where a student has not been exposed to any of the six trade subjects, there is no obligation to register for one as a third subject,” the statement noted.
Reiterating its commitment to ensuring clarity and stability in the education sector, the Federal Government urged parents, school owners, counsellors and examination bodies to rely only on verified information as the curriculum transition progresses. It added that all measures are in place to guarantee a smooth and coordinated WAEC registration process nationwide.
