Teachers slam FG over rushed school curriculum rollout, warning of poor consultation, inadequate infrastructure, and unprepared educators
Teachers slam FG for what they describe as a rushed and poorly coordinated rollout of the new national curriculum, warning it may worsen learning outcomes and increase pressure on already stretched school systems.
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During a virtual town hall on Sunday titled “Understanding the New Curriculum,” educators and parents criticised the Federal Government for failing to consult key stakeholders before announcing the reform.
Child protection advocate Taiwo Akinlami said the process sidelined important voices including teachers, parents, and private school operators.
“If you’re rolling out a new curriculum, people in the system—teachers, private school associations, even students—must be involved. That didn’t happen,” he stated.
Akinlami argued that the rollout seemed more political than educational, adding that even school owners only heard of the changes from news reports.
He pointed out that the infrastructure deficit—especially in subjects like ICT and agriculture—makes the reform difficult to implement.
“You cannot introduce new technical subjects when most schools don’t have electricity, let alone labs,” he added.
Teachers slam FG also over the cost implications for private schools. Many will need to upgrade facilities but are restricted from adjusting fees due to regulatory controls.
Parents also questioned how the new curriculum addresses Nigeria’s 20 million out-of-school children.
“What is the plan for them? Are we developing alternative learning platforms, or will they be left behind again?” Akinlami asked.
Curriculum expert Rhoda Odigboh admitted the review has merit. She praised the reduced subject load, saying it will help students focus and learn better.
However, she cautioned that the digital literacy component may flop without teacher training.
“One-third of basic school teachers lack full qualifications, and most can’t handle digital tools. That’s a problem if we’re going digital,” she warned.
Geographer Dr. Salihu Yahaya urged educational bodies to engage proactively with policymakers rather than wait until decisions are made.
“If we want better policy outcomes, we must contribute to them early,” he said.
Edumark CEO Yinka Ogunde, who convened the meeting, expressed cautious optimism.
“This conversation proves parents and educators have a voice. It’s time to use it to shape policy, not just react to it,” she said.
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