The Federal Government has unveiled plans to divide Nigeria’s 115 Unity Colleges into separate basic and secondary schools as part of efforts to improve the quality and management of education in these institutions.
The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, during the Annual General Meeting of Unity College Principals held in Abuja on Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
Dr. Sununu explained that the division of the Unity Colleges into distinct basic (primary) and secondary institutions is aimed at ensuring focused attention is given to the unique needs of students at both educational levels.
The initiative seeks to create a better learning environment and enhance the administration of the schools, leading to an overall improvement in educational outcomes.
According to the Minister, the restructuring will be implemented in phases, allowing for a smooth transition while minimizing disruptions to the academic calendar. The plan also includes provisions for upgrading the infrastructure of both the basic and secondary schools to meet modern educational standards.
The Unity Colleges, known for their role in fostering national integration by bringing together students from different regions of Nigeria, will continue to function under federal oversight but with more specialized management. The separation of the basic and secondary levels is expected to allow for tailored curricula, age-appropriate learning environments, and better resource allocation.
Dr. Sununu noted that the decision is part of broader reforms aimed at improving the overall quality of education in Nigeria, with the government prioritizing investments in both human and material resources.
The Minister also emphasized the need for collaboration among school administrators, teachers, and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the policy.
The move has been widely welcomed by educational experts and stakeholders, who believe that separating the basic and secondary levels will enable teachers and administrators to better address the developmental needs of students in each age group.
However, some have expressed concerns about the logistics of the division, particularly in ensuring that both schools receive equal attention and resources.
As the government prepares for the phased implementation, further details regarding timelines and funding allocations are expected to be released.
The Federal Ministry of Education has assured the public that the restructuring will lead to a more efficient and effective education system, with the ultimate goal of producing better-prepared graduates from Nigeria’s Unity Colleges.