The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Education to rescind its recent curriculum review directive which removed key subjects from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) portal.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved on Thursday by Hon. Oboku Oforji, who argued that the sudden removal of the subjects has thrown thousands of students preparing for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) into confusion.

Oforji noted that while curriculum improvement is commendable, the timing was “academically disruptive and insensitive,” stressing that some of the removed subjects, particularly Data Processing and Computer Studies, are among the most widely offered and market-relevant courses in secondary schools.

He stated that eliminating Computer Studies at a time when the world including examination bodies is fully adopting digital operations and Computer-Based Testing (CBT) is “counterproductive,” leaving students unprepared for the realities of modern education and workplace dynamics.

The lawmaker also questioned the removal of Civic Education, which he described as “central to nation-building,” noting that students had already been mandated to offer it for two years and removing it would undermine efforts by the National Orientation Agency to promote civic responsibility among citizens.

“If these subjects are removed, SS3 students who have studied them since SS1 will now be left with only five subjects, contrary to the minimum mandatory eight,” Oforji warned, adding that expecting students to select and master three new subjects barely four months before the examination is “academically impossible.”

He said the directive threatens the educational future of thousands of students and contradicts Section 18(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the government to ensure equal and adequate educational opportunities.

The House resolved to urge the Ministry of Education to suspend the implementation and allow current SS3 students to sit for subjects they have been learning over the last three years.

The House resolved to mandate an ad-hoc committee to engage the ministry and ensure compliance within the limited time available. (Daily Trust)

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