The Federal Government of Nigeria has recently issued a directive stipulating that individuals below the age of 18 are ineligible for admission to tertiary institutions. This significant announcement came from the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during a monitoring session of the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory.
Prof. Mamman emphasized the detrimental effects of parental pressure on underage students striving for admission into higher education institutions. This directive is in line with Nigeria's structured 6-3-3-4 educational system, where the minimum age for university entry is set at 18.
Why 18 Years? Understanding the New Admission Benchmark:
According to Prof. Mamman, the decision to set the minimum age at 18 is pivotal for ensuring students' maturity in handling the transition from a controlled school environment to the autonomy of university life. "We have observed students as young as 15 and 16 attempting to enter university," he noted, urging parents to refrain from pushing their children into situations they may not be emotionally or mentally prepared for.
Prof. Mamman elaborated, stating, "This transition marks the shift from a regulated environment to one where individuals must take charge of their own affairs. If students are too young, they might struggle to navigate their newfound freedoms and responsibilities."
Expanding Opportunities Beyond University Walls:
Acknowledging that only a fraction of students can secure admission into tertiary institutions, the minister highlighted the importance of vocational skills acquisition. He stressed that the Ministry of Education is actively integrating skills training into the curriculum from primary school onwards to equip students with essential life skills beyond traditional academic paths.
"Skill acquisition is indispensable for students who may not pursue higher education," Prof. Mamman emphasized. "Every student deserves the chance to lead a fulfilling life after completing their primary and secondary education, and acquiring practical skills is instrumental in achieving this."
Support for the New Age Requirement and Examination Standards:
Dr. Fabian Benjamin, spokesperson for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), echoed the minister's sentiments, affirming that the age requirement aligns with the national educational framework. Additionally, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Education, commended the introduction of online examinations during the UTME monitoring session. This technological advancement has significantly reduced instances of examination malpractice, ensuring the integrity of the assessment process.
The implementation of age limits for university admissions forms part of a broader strategy to enhance Nigeria's educational landscape. It aims not only to ensure that students are adequately prepared for the rigors of higher education but also to foster a system where every individual has the opportunity to acquire valuable skills for a rewarding career.
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