FG plan to scrap “irrelevant” courses sparks Nationwide outrage as CONUA, experts push back

Nigeria’s education sector is facing renewed controversy after the Federal Government announced plans to phase out certain university courses deemed “irrelevant” to the country’s economic future. The move has triggered strong resistance from the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA) and other key stakeholders, who warn that the proposal could reshape the nation’s academic landscape in controversial ways.

The debate, already gaining traction across policy circles and campuses, highlights deeper concerns about graduate unemployment, curriculum relevance, and the future of higher education in Nigeria.

FG’s Plan to Scrap Courses and Shift to Market-Driven Education

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed the government’s intention during a student engagement at the University of Abuja. According to him, Nigeria must transition toward market-driven education, focusing on courses that align with global labour demands and economic realities.

Alausa stated that some academic programmes, particularly within the social sciences, may be discontinued if they fail to provide practical value or employability outcomes. He argued that continuing such courses risks misleading students into pursuing degrees with limited job prospects.

The government’s broader reform strategy includes integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), data science, and entrepreneurship training into tertiary education. A new initiative, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Business Incubation Certification (EPIC), is also expected to become mandatory by 2027.

CONUA Rejects Scrapping of Courses, Calls for Reform Instead

Reacting swiftly, the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA) strongly opposed the outright scrapping of academic programmes. CONUA President, Niyi Sunmonu, emphasised that the focus should be on modernising curricula, not eliminating entire disciplines.

He argued that education must evolve, incorporating emerging trends like automation and digital transformation, rather than narrowing academic diversity. According to him, scrapping courses could limit intellectual development and weaken Nigeria’s knowledge economy.

CONUA’s stance reflects growing concern that the policy could undermine critical thinking disciplines, including sociology, economics, and political science, fields essential for governance, policy-making, and societal development.

Wider Backlash from NASU, NAPTAN and Experts

The backlash extends beyond CONUA. The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) questioned the criteria for labeling courses as “irrelevant,” insisting that value lies in curriculum content, not course titles.

Similarly, the National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) urged the government to adopt a consultative approach, warning against rushed reforms that could destabilize the education system.

Experts and analysts have also weighed in, noting that Nigeria’s employment crisis is not discipline-specific. Data indicates that unemployment and underemployment affect graduates across both STEM and non-STEM fields, pointing to broader structural economic challenges.

READ ALSO

Dangote storms FUTO with ₦550m hostel, unveils ElectroLab-X: What to Know

Data Reveals Deeper Employment Crisis Beyond Course Choice

Recent labour data underscores the complexity of the issue. Nigeria produces over 600,000 graduates annually, yet only a fraction secure formal employment within the first year.

Despite increased education spending, from ₦1.54 trillion in 2023 to ₦3.52 trillion in 2025, concerns remain about inefficiency, poor infrastructure, and weak industry linkages.

Analysts argue that the problem lies less in “irrelevant courses” and more in limited job creation, weak industrial capacity, and a largely informal economy.

Global trends further challenge the government’s position. Skills such as critical thinking, communication, and creativity, often developed through social sciences, are increasingly ranked among the most in-demand competencies worldwide.

Growing Concerns Over Academic Diversity and Policy Direction

Critics warn that eliminating certain courses could reduce academic diversity and create an overly technical education system that neglects social, ethical, and policy dimensions of development.

Education advocates stress that STEM fields alone cannot address societal challenges, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary learning in solving real-world problems.

There are also fears that such statements from policymakers may discourage prospective students and reinforce negative perceptions about non-STEM disciplines.

What Happens Next?

As debate intensifies, stakeholders are calling for comprehensive dialogue involving universities, industry leaders, and policymakers. Many believe that curriculum reform, investment in infrastructure, and stronger industry partnerships offer a more sustainable path forward.

For now, the Federal Government’s proposal has succeeded in resetting the national conversation on education, forcing a critical examination of how Nigeria prepares its workforce for the future.

Whether the policy will be implemented in its current form remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the future of university education in Nigeria is now under intense scrutiny.

FAQ

What is the FG plan to scrap “irrelevant” courses in Nigeria?

The Federal Government plans to phase out university programmes considered misaligned with labour market needs, focusing instead on market-driven and skill-based education.

Why is CONUA opposing the policy?

CONUA believes that scrapping courses is counterproductive and advocates for curriculum modernization instead of eliminating entire disciplines.

Which courses are likely to be affected?

While no official list has been released, social science and humanities programmes are widely speculated to be among those at risk.

Is it true that social science courses have no job opportunities?

No. Experts argue that employment challenges cut across all disciplines, and social sciences remain vital in sectors like policy, finance, media, and consulting.

What alternatives has the government proposed?

The FG plans to integrate AI, data science, and entrepreneurship training, alongside introducing the EPIC certification programme in tertiary institutions.

How does unemployment affect Nigerian graduates?

Nigeria faces a structural employment crisis, with many graduates either unemployed or working outside their field due to limited job creation.

Will this policy affect current students?

Details are unclear, but stakeholders are urging careful implementation to avoid disrupting ongoing academic programmes.

What do experts recommend instead of scrapping courses?

Experts suggest curriculum reform, better funding, industry partnerships, and innovation-driven education rather than eliminating disciplines.

Is Nigeria’s education system underfunded?

Despite increased budgets, funding remains below global standards, and infrastructure challenges persist.

What skills are most in demand globally?

Skills like critical thinking, communication, creativity, and problem-solving, often linked to social sciences, are among the most sought-after worldwide.