My first reaction was that the idea is a joke taken too far, some students are still struggling to pass the available ones and then 39 additional ones??? but I read and then realized they mean well. So, before you lash out at the people behind this, kindly read first. Well, it’s still going to face a lot of criticisms.

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has introduced 39 new subjects in its examinations. The announcement was made during the council’s monthly seminar held on January 31st, 2014. The 39 subjects which fall into two categories; Electives (4) and Trades (35) would commence in this year’s May/June West African Senior School Certificate Examination. Speaking on the new initiative, The Council’s Acting Head, Test Development Division, Mrs. Olayinka Ajibade said it’s in accordance with the Nigerian Education Research and Development Council’s (NERDC) new secondary school curriculum.

“The implementation of the new SSCE curricula began in September 2011, meaning that the maiden public examinations based on the new/ revised curricula are expected to be held in May/ June 2014. Each WASSCE syllabus is derived from the senior secondary education curriculum. In addition to the 39 new subjects for which NERDC engaged in curriculum development, curriculum review was also carried out for 35 existing subjects.”

Students would be required to take four core subjects (English Language, General Mathematics, Civic Education and Trade/ Entrepreneurial Studies) and four other subjects from Humanities, Science, Technology and Business Studies depending on their interest. Subjects in the Electives category include Computer Studies, Insurance, Store Management and Office Practice- while Painting and Decorating, Photography, Salesmanship, Plumbing and Pipe Fitting, Upholstery etc fall in the Trades category.

Source: PUNCH