Universities to Implement New Curriculum from September 2023 – NUC

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced that the implementation of the Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) will begin in September 2023.

The move is aimed at enhancing the quality and global competitiveness of Nigerian universities by guiding the design of curricula and fostering innovation in education.

The CCMAS document is intended to serve as a framework for institutions in developing curricula for their programmes. It will also bring essential innovation to the content and delivery of educational programmes, aligning with the overall objectives of education and training in Nigeria.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ colloquium on CCMAS in Abuja, Chris Maiyaki, the acting Executive Secretary of NUC, emphasized that the implementation of CCMAS is a significant step towards repositioning Nigerian universities among the best-rated institutions in Africa.

Maiyaki explained that the CCMAS will comprise 70% of the curriculum content, while universities will have the flexibility to determine the remaining 30% based on their academic priorities.

“The development of the CCMAS reflects a global initiative that will equip graduates with knowledge and skills to contribute to the nation’s development,” he stated.

He further emphasized that the CCMAS is the result of a meticulous process involving experts from universities, regulatory bodies, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and various stakeholders.

Prof. Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, encouraged universities to maximize the 30% portion where they have input. He urged universities to ensure that learning outcomes, essential skills, and soft skills are acquired by students, regardless of their core disciplines.

These skills should be applicable not only to the university environment but also to the country and the global community at large.

Prof. Mamman stressed the significance of developing a strategy that guides universities in fulfilling their responsibility to provide skilled manpower for the nation, particularly during these times.

The implementation of CCMAS is expected to bring about positive transformations in the education sector, equipping graduates with relevant knowledge and skills that contribute to the progress and development of Nigeria.