The Senate has called on Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, and Amos Dangut, head of West African Examinations Council (WAEC) national office, to explain new guidelines for 2025/2026 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).
Gatekeepers News reports that the decision followed a motion by Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, who said the changes alter subject requirements for students preparing for next year’s May/June exams.
Karimi warned that the sudden adjustments could lead to widespread failure, as candidates may be forced to sit exams for which they are unprepared.
He said, “The guidelines require that all SS3 students nationwide are required to adopt the new curriculum immediately, despite the fact that the guidelines were initially scheduled to operate in the next two years and be applicable to pupils who are currently in SS1 and who are scheduled to write WAEC SSCE in 2027/2028.”
He added that subjects like computer studies, civic education, and all previous trade subjects have been removed from the SSCE, leaving students with a maximum of six courses instead of the minimum eight required for registration. Karimi expressed concern that students will face exams in subjects they never studied.
While the introduction of new trade subjects such as beauty and cosmetology, fashion design, livestock farming, computer hardware and GSM repairs, solar installation, and horticulture is commendable, he warned that testing students without prior instruction could harm exam results and standards.
Other senators echoed concerns. Adams Oshiomhole of Edo North said the new guidelines should not be imposed on current SS3 students, stressing the need for proper preparation, including teachers and laboratories.
Idiat Adebule of Lagos West called for a thorough investigation, noting the usual role of the National Council on Education. Solomon Adeola of Ogun West emphasized that students must be taught the new subjects before examination.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio questioned the removal of computer studies and civic education, noting that the children need to know their national anthem and their civic obligations to their nation.
The matter has been referred to the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education, which will report back to plenary in two weeks.
