LAGOS — Key stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have expressed strong opposition to the Federal Government’s recent decision to set the minimum age for students to write the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examinations (SSCE) at 18, arguing that it could hinder the progress of the sector.
The backlash follows a statement by the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, who announced that from 2025, only students aged 18 or older would be permitted to sit for the SSCE. Without this qualification, students would be unable to apply for admission into tertiary institutions.
This policy has sparked concerns among various educational groups, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the National Parents/Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), the Congress of University Academics (CONUA), the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and members of the Concerned Parents and Educators Network (CPE). They argue that the decision fails to consider the realities of the current educational landscape and could negatively impact students, particularly those who excel at a younger age.
Concerns and Criticism
The NUT’s Secretary General, Dr. Mike Ene, expressed disappointment, suggesting that the policy could set back educational progress in Nigeria. He questioned whether sufficient consultation had taken place, noting that discussions on such matters should occur within the National Council on Education (NCE), which includes representatives from various educational bodies.
Ene highlighted that many children now start school at an earlier age, meaning they often complete secondary education before turning 18. He argued that the new policy could leave these students in a state of limbo, potentially leading to negative outcomes such as increased idleness.
Similarly, Chief Adeolu Ogunbanjo, Deputy National President of NAPTAN, warned that the policy could “kill knowledge and education” in the country. He stated that the association would consider legal action if the government does not reconsider its decision before the policy’s implementation in 2025.
Diverging Views Among Academics
Dr. Niyi Sunmonu, National President of CONUA, suggested that the minimum age for tertiary education should be set at 17, rather than 18, to accommodate students who complete secondary school slightly earlier. He called for a meeting of stakeholders to deliberate on the policy, emphasizing the importance of consensus and legislative backing.
On the other hand, ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, supported adherence to the educational timeline outlined in the 6-3-3-4 system, which suggests that students should be 18 years old by the time they enter tertiary institutions. He pointed to the role of private schools in accelerating students’ education and urged parents to follow the recommended guidelines.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
A member of the Concerned Parents and Educators Network, Mr. Oladapo Adekoya, criticized the policy as being out of touch with modern educational needs. He argued that the focus should be on updating curricula and addressing more pressing educational issues, rather than restricting students based on age.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), one of the bodies responsible for administering the SSCE, has yet to issue a formal response to the policy, though it has indicated that it will comment on the matter in due course.
The debate over the appropriate age for students to begin higher education is not new in Nigeria. Earlier this year, the issue arose during a meeting with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), where stakeholders ultimately agreed to maintain the minimum age for tertiary admission at 16.
As the policy’s 2025 implementation date approaches, it is likely to remain a contentious issue, with potential legal challenges and further discussions among educational authorities and stakeholders.
