FG Clarifies WAEC Subject Selection Rules as Registration Continues Nationwide

The Federal Government has issued a clear and authoritative update on subject selection under the Senior Secondary School Curriculum, following widespread confusion as WAEC registration progresses across the country.

In recent weeks, students, parents, school administrators, and guidance counsellors have expressed concern over conflicting information circulating online. To address this, the Federal Ministry of Education released an official clarification to guide all candidates registering for the ongoing 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Ministry of Education: “No Restriction on Approved Subjects”

The update, issued through the Office of the Director of Press and Public Relations, conveyed the positions of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Sa’idu Swaibu Ahmad.

Both ministers emphasized that there is no restriction on any subject approved under the national curriculum.
Students are free to choose any combination of subjects as long as the decision is guided by their school, parents, or qualified counsellors.

They further explained that:

• A science student may choose an art or social science subject if it aligns with their career plans.
• Likewise, an arts or commercial student may select a science subject when necessary.
• The curriculum is intentionally designed to support flexibility, student interests, and long-term academic goals.

Digital Technology: New Name, Same Content

To clear up online confusion, the Ministry addressed the subject formerly known as Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

• ICT has now been renamed Digital Technology.
• The curriculum content remains unchanged.
• Any student who previously studied ICT is fully eligible to register for Digital Technology in WAEC and other national exams.

This update ensures uniformity across schools and examination bodies as digital literacy continues to evolve in Nigeria’s education system.

Trade Subjects: Government Lists Six Approved Options

The Federal Government also restated guidelines concerning trade subjects under the current curriculum.

• Only six approved trade subjects exist under the SSCE structure.
• A student may register any one of these trade subjects if the school teaches it and the student has received adequate instruction.
• Where a school does not teach any of the approved trade subjects, students are not required to register a trade subject as their third elective.

This clarification helps eliminate pressure on schools and students facing constraints related to staffing, facilities, or curriculum specialization.

Schools Urged to Guide Students Properly

As WAEC registration continues across Nigeria, the Ministry called on all secondary schools to provide accurate counselling and strong academic guidance, ensuring each candidate selects subjects that match their strengths and future study paths.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting students through a curriculum that encourages flexibility, innovation, and preparedness for tertiary education and future careers.

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