The Federal Government has announced plans to abolish the policy separating junior secondary schools from senior secondary schools as part of efforts to improve student retention and maximize the use of existing educational infrastructure across the country.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed the plan in Abuja during the inauguration of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee.
According to the minister, the current system has resulted in overcrowded junior secondary schools while many senior secondary schools remain underutilized with vacant classrooms. He noted that the policy has also contributed significantly to the growing number of students who drop out before completing their secondary education. 
Alausa revealed that more than 20 million children who enrolled in primary school failed to reach senior secondary school, having dropped out at various stages of their educational journey.
He explained that the proposed reform is aimed at creating a seamless transition between junior and senior secondary education, thereby increasing school retention rates and providing more children with the opportunity to complete their education.
The minister added that the initiative would also ensure more efficient use of available school facilities while supporting the Federal Government’s broader commitment to expanding access to quality education for every Nigerian child.
