By Nsan Neji
ABUJA (CONVERSEER) – The Federal Government has reassured students, parents and schools that there are no restrictions or exclusions on subject choices for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), following widespread concerns triggered by misinterpretations of the revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government emphasised that students are free to select subjects within the approved curriculum, provided such decisions are guided by school authorities, parents or certified school counsellors. The Ministry maintained that all subjects remain open for selection without any limitations.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, and Minister of State for Education, Prof. Sa’id Ahmad, said in the statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, that the curriculum is designed to be flexible, student-centred and aligned with diverse academic interests and career goals.
They clarified that science students may opt for subjects traditionally grouped under the arts or social sciences, while students in the arts and social sciences may also select science subjects if they wish. The aim, they said, is to ensure students enjoy broader learning opportunities without rigid subject barriers.
The Ministry also addressed concerns about the subject formerly known as Information and Communication Technology, explaining that it has been renamed Digital Technology. It stressed that the adjustment is strictly a change of name and does not affect the curriculum content. Students who previously studied ICT remain fully eligible to sit for Digital Technology in both registration and examinations.
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On Trade Subjects, the Ministry stated that six have been approved under the curriculum. Students may register for any of these trade subjects provided their school offers them, and they have been taught the subject. However, it added that there is no obligation for students to register for a trade subject if they were not exposed to any of the six options during their studies.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth and inclusive implementation of the revised curriculum nationwide. It urged parents, school proprietors, counsellors and examination bodies to rely on verified information and provide appropriate guidance as WAEC registration progresses.
The Ministry assured that it will continue to support seamless and well-coordinated registration processes across the country.
