FG unveils policy to regulate non-state schools nationwide

By Kunle Sanni –

The Federal Government has launched the National Policy on Non-State Schools in Nigeria (NPNSN), establishing clear guidelines and minimum standards for private and community-led educational institutions across the country.

Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the policy on Tuesday via a statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

The policy aims to regulate and strengthen the fast-growing sector of non-state schools (NSNs), which includes private, faith-based, missionary, home schools, adult learning centres, charity, and community-run institutions.

Dr. Alausa explained that the policy provides a comprehensive framework covering infrastructure, teacher quality, curriculum delivery, data collection, and school safety. It aligns with national education goals to improve coordination and oversight of NSNs.

“With this policy, the Federal Government can foster an enabling environment for inclusive access to education, enhance regulation, and ensure all NSNs meet safety and quality standards,” he stated.

To address the challenge of out-of-school children (OOSC), the government also announced a voucher support initiative for NSNs that enrol such children, reinforcing its “no child left behind” commitment.

The minister commended stakeholders, including State Commissioners for Education and development partners like @PLANE_Nigeria, for their contributions to the policy’s development.

He called for collaborative efforts from all sectors to ensure the effective implementation of the policy and improve education outcomes nationwide.