The Federal Government’s decision to ban under-18 candidates from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examination Council has generated mixed reactions from stakeholders in the education sector.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has condemned the policy, describing it as unrealistic and poorly conceived. However, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has backed the government, stating that children should follow the standard academic progression.
The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has reiterated that the age limit for sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examination Council is 18 years. He emphasized that this is not a new policy, but a reminder of an existing one.
Critics argue that the policy does not take into account exceptional students who may be younger but academically advanced. They warn that the policy could lead to legal challenges and urge the government to rethink it.
The polytechnic lecturer, Mr Shammah Kpanja, has questioned the government’s priorities, pointing out inconsistencies such as allowing child marriages in the North while restricting younger students from taking WAEC.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has stated that education in Nigeria is regulated by the government, which has the right to enforce any policy it deems fit.
The Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities will meet in September to take a stand on the policy.
Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, ASUU National President, has stated that children should follow the standard academic progression: six years in primary school, six years in secondary school, and then move on to university at the age of 18.
The National President, All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, Mallam Musa Ibrahim, has expressed support for the government’s decision, stating that it is not just about intelligence but also emotional maturity.
