Bwari: Residents of Bwari Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commended the Federal Government for introducing skill-based subjects into the basic education curriculum. In interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bwari, some residents said the new curriculum would encourage self-dependence after school.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Federal Government introduced 15 Skill Acquisition Programmes into Primary and Junior Secondary School Curricula, following approval by the National Council on Education. The new curricula aim to build creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in students while reducing over-dependence on white-collar jobs.

NAN reports that the skill programme includes plumbing, tiling and floor work, POP installation, event decoration and management, bakery and confectioneries. Other skills covered are hair styling, make-up, interior design, GSM repairs, solar installation and maintenance, garment making, basic digital literacy, CCTV, intercom installation and maintenance, agriculture, and food processing.

Mr. Suleiman Ibrahim, Principal of Bright Future Academy, Bwari, said the newly introduced basic skilled programme for primary and junior secondary schools was timely and important for Nigeria’s education system. Ibrahim highlighted that schools have focused mainly on theoretical training for many years, and the new curriculum would train both the mind and the hands.

Similarly, Mrs. Gloria Oche, a Basic Science teacher, welcomed the development, noting that practical learning makes education more meaningful. She emphasized that practical skill acquisition helps children remember better and gain confidence.

Mr. James Okeke, a father of two, said the new curriculum reform would provide more opportunities for children and ease the burden of unemployment. He mentioned that parents have been worried about post-graduation prospects, and this government initiative is a blessing that equips children with skills early on.

Mrs. Aisha Mohammed, a mother of four, expressed that the policy would build a stronger generation of young Nigerians. She stressed that not every child will go to university, but every child can have a skill, which this curriculum provides.

Miss Chiamaka Joseph, a JSS 2 student, expressed her interest in garment-making, which has been her chosen vocation during holidays. Another student, Musa Usman, said digital literacy would change how he uses computers.