The Nigerian government has unveiled a new secondary school curriculum that introduces modern skills such as journalism, programming, artificial intelligence (AI), and fact-checking as part of core learning for Nigerian students.
Dada Olusegun, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, disclosed the details on Tuesday while sharing excerpts from the yet-to-be-released document, according to TheCable.
According to the draft, journalism will now be taught under English Language for senior secondary students, while programming will be embedded across both junior and senior secondary levels.
AI and robotics have also been introduced under a new subject called Digital Literacy for senior classes.
“The new curriculum is designed to equip Nigerian students with practical skills in communication, technology, and critical thinking that meet the demands of the 21st century,” Olusegun explained.
According to the new outline, students in junior classes from JSS1-3 will take subjects featuring a mix of traditional subjects and technology-based learning.
Key components include: Mathematics & Measurement: Covering numbers, geometry, algebra, statistics, and practical applications; English Language: Emphasis on essay writing, advanced grammar, oral communication, and drama; Integrated Science: Covering physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science.
Digital Literacy & Coding: Introduction to Microsoft Office, internet research, coding (Python basics, Scratch), and robotics kits; Social Studies: Nigerian and African history, civics, economy, and global issues; Languages: Mother tongue and conversational foreign languages such as French or Arabic.
Creative Arts: Drawing, painting, crafts, theatre, film basics, and music, and Physical & Health Education: Sports, fitness, nutrition, reproductive health, and drug abuse awareness.
Senior students from SS1-3 will take on more advanced modules, particularly in science, technology, and communication.
Highlights include: Mathematics & Advanced Applications: Trigonometry, calculus, probability, and financial maths; English & Communication: Academic writing, world literature, research skills, journalism, and fact-checking.
Sciences: Advanced physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science; Technology & Innovation: Programming (Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS), data science, AI & robotics, cybersecurity, and digital entrepreneurship.
Social Sciences: Government, law, economics, history, philosophy, and entrepreneurship; Languages: Mother tongue literature and international languages (French, Arabic, or optional Chinese).
Creative Arts & Innovation: Fine arts, music, drama, and media production; Physical & Health Education: Sports, mental health, CPR, and leadership training, and Research & Project Work: Final-year project with data collection, analysis, and defence.
Olusegun emphasised that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to modernising education and aligning it with global standards.
He said the government wants Nigerian students to compete internationally, not just academically but in innovation, creativity, and responsible communication.
The official curriculum document is expected to be released by the Ministry of Education later this year.
