THE Federal Government has released a list of 26 approved trade areas under the newly revised technical education curriculum.
According to a statement signed yesterday by Bon Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, the reforms will take effect from the 2025/2026 academic year.
All Federal Science and Technical Colleges will be converted to Federal Technical Colleges as part of the overhaul.
The Education Minister, Dr. Maruf Alausa and the Minister of State, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad announced that each college will now offer a minimum of six and a maximum of ten trade courses.
Students are expected to take between nine and ten subjects: one core trade, five to six general subjects, two to three trade-related courses, and one elective.
The ministry explained that the reforms are aimed at reducing curriculum overload, strengthening vocational competencies, and aligning with global industry standards.
The trades were selected to reflect demand across construction, agriculture, energy, automotive, digital services, and creative sectors.
“This reform is designed to build strong trade competencies, prepare students for future jobs, and ensure Nigeria’s technical education matches global best practices,” the statement read.
The updated curriculum also introduces Citizenship and Heritage Studies, alongside compulsory science and language subjects.
Full List of the 26 Approved Trade Areas:
1. Bricklaying, blocklaying & concreting
2. Woodwork, carpentry & joinery
3. Plumbing & pipe fitting
4. Computer hardware & GSM repair and maintenance
5. Refrigeration & air-conditioning works
6. Mechanised agriculture (mechanisation / smart agriculture)
7. Autobody works
8. Catering craft practice
9. Solar PV installation and maintenance
10. Fashion design & garment making
11. Livestock farming / animal husbandry
12. Fish farming (aquaculture)
13. Motorcycle & tricycle repairs
14. Painting, decoration & finishes (interior design)
15. Welding & fabrication
16. Auto-electrical wiring
17. Automobile mechanics
18. Beauty therapy & cosmetology
19. Creative media (digital media production / operations)
20. Electronic systems maintenance craft
21. Furniture making & upholstery
22. Networking & system security (including satellite TV antenna installation & maintenance)
23. Social media content creation & management
24. Tiling & cladding (decorative stonework / floor-cover installation)
25. Automobile CNG conversion & maintenance
26. Leather works