The Federal Ministry of Education has released the full list of 26 trade areas approved under its newly revised technical-education curriculum, set to take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.
According to a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Bon Folasade, the reform will see all Federal Science and Technical Colleges converted to Federal Technical Colleges, each mandated to offer between six and ten trade courses. Students are expected to take nine to ten subjects, including one core trade, five to six general subjects, two to three trade-related courses, and one elective.
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and Minister of State Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad explained that the overhaul was designed to reduce curriculum overload, strengthen trade competencies, and align with global standards while preparing Nigerian students for modern industry demands. The trades cut across construction, agriculture, energy, automotive, creative media, and digital services.
The ministry also introduced Citizenship and Heritage Studies as a new subject, alongside existing science and language courses, to instill national values and foster civic responsibility.
The 26 approved trades are:
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Brick Laying, Block Laying & Concreting
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Woodwork, Carpentry & Joinery
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Plumbing & Pipe Fitting
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Computer Hardware & GSM Repair & Maintenance
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Refrigeration & Air-conditioning Works
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Mechanised/Smart Agriculture
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Autobody Works
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Catering Craft Practice
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Solar PV Installation & Maintenance
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Fashion Design & Garment Making
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Livestock Farming/Animal Husbandry
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Fish Farming (Aquaculture)
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Motorcycle & Tricycle Repairs
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Painting, Decoration & Finishes (Interior Design)
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Welding & Fabrication
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Auto-Electrical Wiring
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Automobile Mechanics
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Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology
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Creative Media (Digital Media Production)
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Electronic Systems Maintenance Craft
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Furniture Making & Upholstery
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Networking & System Security (Satellite TV installation & maintenance)
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Social Media Content Creation & Management
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Tiling & Cladding (Floor & Decorative Stonework)
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Automobile CNG Conversion & Maintenance
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Leather Works
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has also published the approved subject lists for basic and senior secondary schools.
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Primary 1–3 pupils will take 9–10 subjects, including English, Mathematics, Nigerian Languages, Basic Science, History, Social & Citizenship Studies, and Cultural & Creative Arts. Arabic is optional.
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Primary 4–6 expands to 11–13 subjects, adding Basic Digital Literacy and Pre-vocational Studies. French is optional alongside Arabic.
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Junior Secondary School (JSS) students will take 12–14 subjects, with core courses such as English, Mathematics, Digital Technologies, History, and Intermediate Science, plus optional trade subjects like Solar PV, Fashion Design, Livestock Farming, and Computer Hardware Repairs.
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Senior Secondary School students must offer five compulsory subjects: English, General Mathematics, a Trade Subject, Citizenship & Heritage Studies, and Digital Technologies. They can then select from a wide range of science, humanities, business, and vocational electives.
The Ministry added that nationwide sensitisation and teacher training will be rolled out ahead of implementation.
