FG Declares All WAEC Subjects Open to Students Across Streams

The Federal Government has announced that Senior Secondary School Students in Nigeria whether in Arts, Commercial or Science streams are fully allowed to register for any WAEC-approved subject, ending widespread confusion sparked by misinformation on curriculum restrictions.

The clarification came in an official statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) and signed by Boriowo Folashade, the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations. The statement stressed that the revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum does not impose limits on subject choices based on a student’s academic track.

Folashade explained that contrary to viral social-media posts and rumours within some schools, no subject group is exclusive to any track, and students remain free to select combinations aligned with their academic interests, strengths and career aspirations provided they make such selections in consultation with parents, teachers or certified guidance counsellors.

The Ministry emphasised that the curriculum was designed to be flexible and student-centred, ensuring that learners have the freedom to diversify their academic options. This means:

Science students may offer Arts or Social Science subjects;

Arts or Commercial students may offer Science subjects, as long as their schools provide the necessary teaching support.

On curriculum adjustments, the FME clarified that the subject previously known as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has simply been renamed Digital Technology. The Ministry reassured students that the change is nominal, and those who previously studied ICT remain eligible to register for Digital Technology in WAEC examinations.

The statement also addressed concerns about the Trade/Entrepreneurship component of the curriculum. The Ministry confirmed that six trade subjects have been officially approved. However, students are only expected to register for a trade subject if their school offers it and they have been properly taught the curriculum. No student is mandated to choose a trade subject they were never taught.

With registration for the 2026 WASSCE cycle currently in progress nationwide, the Federal Government urged schools, parents and students to disregard misinformation and rely solely on verified updates issued through official channels.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to providing a clear, inclusive and adaptable curriculum that supports Nigeria’s evolving educational needs.