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Education Systems
Education in Nigeria is overseen by the Ministry of Education. Local authorities take responsibility for implementing policy for state-controlled public education and state schools at a regional level. The education system is divided into Kindergarten, primary education, secondary education and tertiary education.Students spend six years in Secondary School, that is 3 years of JSS (Junior Secondary School), and 3 years of SSS (Senior Secondary School). SSS curriculum is based on 6 core subjects completed by 2 or 3 elective subjects. Core subject are: English; mathematics; Economics; one major Nigerian language; one elective out of biology, chemistry, physics or integrated science; one elective out of English literature, history, geography or social studies; agricultural science or a vocational subject which includes: Commerce, food and nutrition, technical drawing or fine arts.
Promotional examinations
With the introduction of 6-3-3-4 system of education in Nigeria, the recipient of the education would spend six years in primary school, three years in junior secondary school, three years in senior secondary school, and four years in tertiary institution. The six years spent in primary school and the three years spent in junior secondary school are merged to form the nine in the 9-3-4 system. Altogether, the students must spend a minimum period of six years in Secondary School. During this period, students are expected to spend three years in Junior Secondary School and three years in Senior Secondary School.The Federal Government policy on education is adhered to by all secondary schools in Nigeria. Six years of elementary school is followed by six years of secondary school. Senior Secondary school consists of the SS I, SS 2, and SS 3 which is equivalent to the 10th, 11th and 12th Grade. The Senior Secondary School Examination (SSCE) is taken at the end of the SS 3. The West African Examination Council (WAEC) administers both exams. Three to six months after a student has taken the SSCE examination, they are issued an official transcript from their institution. This transcript is valid for one year, after which an Official transcript from the West African Examination Council is issued.
National Examination Council is another examination body in Nigeria Senior Secondary School Examination (SSCE)in June/July. The body also administer General Certificate of Education Examination (GCE)in December/January. The students often take both WAEC and NECO examinations in SSS 3.
Private and International Schools
There is high and positive level of academic performance for private schools in Nigeria. Private schools offer more accelerated college focused courses and are more intent on hurrying their students to go to college.Most international school curricula in Nigeria follow British, American or International Baccalaureate standards. The quality of education tends to be high, and students need not worry about falling behind during their time abroad. Many are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and offer a healthy choice of extra-curricular activities.
Although some international schools may follow the format of the school year in their home country, the school year in Nigeria runs from January to December, and is divided into three semesters. The school day in Nigeria runs roughly between 8am and 3pm; timetables are subject to changes according to age level and institution.
Fees and admission
Parents should be fully aware that such a posh education amid a sea of sub-standard state options certainly comes at a price. On top of the high basic fees, other expenses can include school uniforms, text books, extra-curricular activities and transport.