SSCE: What students need to know about new subject

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Education has made some clarifications regarding the observed challenges in the recent changes as contained in the revised senior secondary school curriculum.

The government said the clarification was in response to numerous calls, letters and public concerns arising from misinterpretations circulating across various media platforms particularly as it concerns students who are registering for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, in a statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, the Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, emphasised that all subjects in the SSCE registration portal remain fully open for students to choose from, as long as such choices are properly guided by the school authorities, parents or a certified school counsellor.

He insisted that there is no restriction or exclusion attached to the selection of any approved subject within the senior secondary school curriculum.

The minister further noted that a science student may choose to select subjects classified under the social sciences or arts, while students in the arts and social sciences may also choose subjects traditionally grouped under the sciences.

He said the curriculum was designed to be flexible, student-centred and supportive of diverse academic interests and career pathways.

On issues relating to the subject formerly known as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the minister explained that the subject was renamed Digital Technology, stressing that the change was purely in nomenclature and does not alter the curriculum content. “Hence, students who previously offered ICT are therefore fully eligible to sit for Digital Technology during registration and examinations.

Regarding the Trade Subjects, the minister also explained that six trade subjects have been identified and approved under the curriculum.

“A student may register for any of the subjects if the school offers them and the student has been taught the subject.

“However, where a student has not been exposed to or offered any of the six trade subjects, there is no obligation for such a student to register for any trade subject as a third subject,” he explained.

The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth, inclusive and well-guided implementation of the revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum nationwide.

He urged all stakeholders including parents, school proprietors, counsellors and examination bodies to rely on verified information and provide appropriate guidance to students as WAEC registration progresses.

He reassured that the ministry will continue to champion seamless, accurate and well coordinated registration processes across the country.