Federal Government Sets Minimum Age for Tertiary Admission to 16 Years

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reinstated the minimum age requirement of 16 years for admission into tertiary institutions. This decision was confirmed by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during a recent briefing in Abuja.

Key Highlights of the New Admission Age Policy

Minimum Age Requirement: The age limit for tertiary admission reverts to 16 years, moving away from the previously interpreted 18-year minimum in the National Policy on Education.
Exceptions for Gifted Students: Dr. Alausa emphasized that gifted students who are academically prepared to start tertiary education before the age of 16 may be granted exceptions.

Policy Goals and Educational Focus Areas

Dr. Alausa outlined the ministry’s commitment to advancing existing educational policies, focusing on accessibility and quality education, particularly for women and girls. He aims to implement reforms that prioritize equity and human capital development through education.

Emphasis on Technical and Vocational Training

Skill-Based Curriculum: Federal institutions will focus on practical training (80% practical, 20% theoretical) to equip students with job-ready skills, especially in technical and vocational areas.
Sector Collaboration: The Ministry will work with the private sector to promote mechanized farming and reduce food insecurity.
Future-Focused Education: Renewable energy and compressed natural gas trades will be integrated into the curriculum, ensuring that students are equipped for emerging job markets.

Safeguarding Academic Integrity and Standards

Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the government’s stance on educational standards, particularly concerning fraudulent degrees:

Certificate Policy: The government will not recognize certificates from certain institutions in the Benin Republic and Togo to counter fraudulent academic qualifications.
Commitment to Academic Integrity: This policy aims to uphold the quality and integrity of Nigeria’s educational qualifications.

Addressing Out-of-School Children

The Minister announced plans to reduce the number of out-of-school children by partnering with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. Key initiatives include:

Conditional Cash Transfers: Financial support will be offered to encourage families to enroll their children in school.
Nutritional Support: Nutritional programs will be implemented to improve student health and academic performance.

Minister of State for Education’s Remarks on Inclusivity

Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, the Minister of State for Education, emphasized teamwork in the education sector. She acknowledged recent positive shifts in workplace culture and productivity within the ministry, committing to a student-centered approach that upholds educational integrity.

Ministry’s Support and Future Vision

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Nazir Sani-Gwazo, expressed the Ministry’s full support for the Ministers’ objectives. These policy reforms reflect the Federal Government’s commitment to a forward-looking education system aligned with President Tinubu’s vision for an inclusive, skill-based, and economically relevant education sector.

This renewed approach in the Nigerian education sector emphasizes inclusivity, practical skills training, and a supportive learning environment for all students, contributing to a stronger, future-ready workforce.

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