The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has unveiled new subject combinations for the 2026 WASSCE, and one of the most notable changes is that Economics will now be exclusive to Business students.
According to the new directive, Science and Arts students will no longer be allowed to take Economics, a move that has already sparked mixed reactions among teachers and students.
WAEC emphasized that every student must now register for at least eight subjects and a maximum of nine, including three compulsory ones, which are English Language, Mathematics, and Civic Education.
For Science students, subjects include Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, and Agricultural Science, while Arts students will focus on Literature, Government or History, Religious Studies, and languages like Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa. Business students will retain Economics, Accounting, and Commerce as core areas.
In addition, WAEC reaffirmed that all candidates must select at least one trade subject from the 35 available, including Data Processing, Catering Craft Practice, Garment Making, Photography, Welding, and GSM Maintenance, among others in an effort to promote entrepreneurship and employability among graduates.
Education experts have described the reform as part of WAEC’s plan to align its curriculum with the new senior secondary school structure and Nigeria’s drive toward skill-based learning. However, some teachers believe excluding Economics from Science and Arts combinations may disadvantage students aiming for flexible career paths.
The new subject structure is expected to take full effect in the 2026 WASSCE, and schools across Nigeria are already adjusting their timetables to reflect the changes.
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