In recent years, Nigeria’s education system has placed strong emphasis on skill acquisition and entrepreneurship. As a result, trade subjects have become a compulsory part of the Senior Secondary School (SSS) curriculum.
These subjects are designed to equip students with practical, employable skills alongside academic knowledge.
For the 2026 academic session, understanding compulsory trade subjects for senior secondary students is very important for learners, parents, school administrators, and teachers.
Many students are still confused about what trade subjects are, which ones are compulsory, and how they affect WAEC, NECO, and future career opportunities.
This article provides a detailed and clear explanation of compulsory trade subjects for Senior Secondary School in Nigeria for 2026, including their objectives, examples, importance, assessment, and career relevance.
What Are Trade Subjects in Senior Secondary School?
Trade subjects are vocational and technical subjects introduced into the Nigerian senior secondary curriculum to promote practical skills, creativity, and self-reliance.
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Unlike purely academic subjects, trade subjects focus on hands-on learning and real-world applications.
The Federal Government of Nigeria introduced trade subjects to:
• Reduce unemployment among school leavers
• Encourage entrepreneurship
• Promote technical and vocational education
• Prepare students for self-employment
• Support national economic development
Trade subjects are examined by bodies such as WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB.
Are Trade Subjects Compulsory in Senior Secondary School?
Yes. Under the current Nigerian education policy, every senior secondary school student is expected to offer at least one trade or entrepreneurship-related subject.
While students are not required to offer all trade subjects, schools must ensure that students select one or more from the approved list. This policy applies to public and private secondary schools.
The idea is not to force all students into technical careers, but to ensure that every student leaves school with at least one practical skill.
Objectives of Compulsory Trade Subjects
The compulsory trade subjects are designed to:
• Equip students with practical and vocational skills
• Promote creativity and innovation
• Prepare students for the world of work
• Encourage self-reliance after secondary school
• Reduce overdependence on white-collar jobs
• Support technical and entrepreneurial development
These subjects help bridge the gap between education and employability.
Approved Compulsory Trade Subjects for Senior Secondary 2026
The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) provides a list of approved trade subjects. Schools are expected to offer some of these subjects based on available facilities and teachers.
Below are the major compulsory trade subjects commonly offered in Nigerian senior secondary schools.
Fashion Design and Garment Making
Fashion Design and Garment Making is one of the most popular trade subjects. It focuses on clothing construction, textile knowledge, and creative design.
Students learn:
• Sewing techniques
• Pattern drafting
• Fabric selection
• Garment finishing
• Fashion entrepreneurship
This subject prepares students for careers in tailoring, fashion design, and clothing production.
Catering Craft Practice
Catering Craft Practice teaches students food preparation, nutrition, and hospitality skills.
Topics include:
• Food preparation and presentation
• Kitchen safety and hygiene
• Menu planning
• Food storage
• Catering business basics
This subject supports careers in catering, hospitality, and food entrepreneurship.
Data Processing
Data Processing focuses on basic computer and information handling skills.
Students learn:
• Computer operations
• Data management
• Basic software applications
• Information processing
• Digital workplace skills
It prepares students for ICT-related careers and further studies in computer science.
Animal Husbandry
Animal Husbandry focuses on the rearing and management of livestock.
Topics include:
• Types of farm animals
• Feeding and breeding
• Animal health
• Farm management
• Livestock production
This subject supports agriculture, agribusiness, and food production careers.
Crop Husbandry and Horticulture
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This trade subject focuses on crop production and plant cultivation.
Students learn:
• Crop types
• Soil preparation
• Planting methods
• Pest and disease control
• Harvesting and storage
It promotes agricultural self-reliance and food security.
Fisheries
Fisheries teaches students how to manage fish production and aquatic resources.
Topics include:
• Types of fish
• Fish farming methods
• Pond construction
• Fish feeding
• Fish harvesting and marketing
This subject supports careers in aquaculture and agribusiness.
Auto Mechanics
Auto Mechanics focuses on vehicle maintenance and repair.
Students learn:
• Engine systems
• Vehicle components
• Basic repairs
• Workshop safety
• Diagnostic skills
It prepares students for automotive and mechanical careers.
Electrical Installation and Maintenance
This subject teaches basic electrical wiring and installation skills.
Topics include:
• Electrical tools and materials
• Domestic wiring
• Safety practices
• Fault detection
• Electrical repairs
It supports careers in electrical work and technical services.
Plumbing and Pipe Fitting
Plumbing focuses on water supply and drainage systems.
Students learn:
• Plumbing tools
• Pipe installation
• Water systems
• Maintenance and repairs
• Safety practices
This subject provides employable technical skills.
Welding and Fabrication
Welding and Fabrication teaches metal joining and fabrication skills.
Topics include:
• Types of welding
• Welding equipment
• Safety measures
• Metal fabrication
• Workshop practice
It supports careers in construction and manufacturing.
Carpentry and Joinery
This trade subject focuses on woodwork and furniture making.
Students learn:
• Wood types
• Carpentry tools
• Furniture construction
• Measurement and finishing
• Workshop safety
It prepares students for construction and furniture businesses.
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Photography
Photography focuses on visual documentation and media skills.
Topics include:
• Camera handling
• Image composition
• Lighting techniques
• Photo editing basics
• Photography business
It supports creative and media-related careers.
Tourism
Tourism introduces students to travel, hospitality, and cultural awareness.
Students learn:
• Tourism concepts
• Tourist attractions
• Customer service
• Travel management
• Tourism entrepreneurship
This subject supports hospitality and tourism careers.
Assessment of Trade Subjects in Senior Secondary School
Trade subjects are assessed through both theory and practical examinations.
Assessment usually includes:
• Written examinations
• Practical demonstrations
• Continuous assessment
• Project work
WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB may examine these subjects depending on school registration.
Importance of Trade Subjects for WAEC and NECO
Trade subjects count as elective subjects in WAEC and NECO. Good performance can improve overall results and support admission into technical, vocational, or related tertiary programs.
They also demonstrate practical competence, which is valuable even outside formal education.
Benefits of Offering Trade Subjects
Trade subjects help students:
• Acquire practical life skills
• Discover talents and interests
• Prepare for self-employment
• Build confidence and creativity
• Reduce dependency on office jobs
They also support national economic growth.
How Schools Choose Trade Subjects
Schools select trade subjects based on:
• Availability of teachers
• Workshop and equipment
• Student interest
• School location and resources
Not all schools offer all trade subjects, but each student must offer at least one.
Common Challenges with Trade Subjects
Some challenges include:
• Limited equipment
• Lack of trained instructors
• Poor funding
• Negative perception of vocational subjects
Despite these challenges, trade subjects remain very important.
Tips for Students Choosing Trade Subjects
Choose a subject based on interest and ability.
Consider future career goals.
Do not choose only based on friends’ choices.
Take practical lessons seriously.
Practice skills outside school if possible.
Proper choice leads to better performance and satisfaction.
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Career Opportunities After Senior Secondary Trade Subjects
Trade subjects open doors to:
• Self-employment
• Apprenticeship
• Technical colleges
• Polytechnics
• Entrepreneurship
Many successful Nigerian entrepreneurs started with trade skills learned in secondary school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are trade subjects compulsory for all senior secondary students?
Yes, at least one trade subject is compulsory.
Do trade subjects affect university admission?
They may not be compulsory, but they provide added advantage.
Can science or art students offer trade subjects?
Yes, trade subjects are open to all students.
Are trade subjects practical?
Yes, they focus heavily on hands-on skills.
Conclusion
Compulsory trade subjects for Senior Secondary School 2026 are a vital part of Nigeria’s education system. They are designed to equip students with practical, technical, and entrepreneurial skills that prepare them for life beyond the classroom.
By offering trade subjects such as Fashion Design, Catering, Auto Mechanics, Electrical Installation, Agriculture-related trades, and ICT-based subjects, students gain valuable skills that promote self-reliance and employability.
Trade subjects are not a fallback option; they are a powerful pathway to success in today’s skill-driven world.
