Emerging Issues on the Universal Basic Education Curriculum in Nigeria: Implications for the Science and Technology Component

Abstract

The Universal Basic Education (UBE) which was formally launched in 1999 is an educational reform programme of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The UBE is to provide a universal, free, compulsory and continuous 9 year education programme. In line with the programme, the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has developed a new 9 year Basic Education Curriculum for distribution to schools. This study examines the New National Curriculum for the Basic Education programme with emphasis on the implementation of Basic Science and Technology components. It highlights the main focus of the Basic Science and Technology Curriculum. Finally, the study discusses emerging issues and makes recommendations to ensure successful implementation of the Basic Education curriculum.