FG Engages Private School Associations in First-of-its-Kind Strategic Dialogue on Education Reform

The Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), on [insert date], hosted a landmark strategic meeting with leaders of various Private School Associations in Abuja.

Described as the first of its kind, the meeting served as a platform for open dialogue between the government and private education stakeholders, aiming to address sector-wide concerns and foster collaboration for a more inclusive and future-ready education system.

Present at the meeting were the Minister of Education and the Executive Secretary of UBEC, who both emphasized the critical role of private schools in Nigeria’s education landscape. With approximately 75% of students in the country enrolled in private institutions, stakeholders underscored the need for their voices to be included in national education planning and policy-making.

As part of ongoing reforms under the National Education Strategic Roadmap Implementation (NESRI) Strategy—specifically Point Six, focused on Education Quality Assurance—the Ministry announced the development of a new curriculum for Basic and Senior Secondary Education, set to be introduced in September 2025. Notably, Nigerian History will be a key component of this revised curriculum.

To ensure inclusive participation, the Ministry has established a Technical Working Group comprising representatives from major private education bodies, including the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), the Association of Private Educators in Nigeria (APEN), and the World Organisation for Early Childhood Education (OMEP).

A Government-Private Technical Working Group (TWG) will also be inaugurated to institutionalize engagement and strengthen public-private partnerships in the education sector.

The Minister commended the commitment of the Associations and reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to ensure all stakeholders are carried along in shaping Nigeria’s education future. “Together, and only together, can we transform the education system,” the Minister stated.