Parents Split Over Nigeria’s New 18-Year Age Limit for WAEC and UTME Exams

The recent announcement by Nigeria’s Federal Government to set an 18-year minimum age requirement for students taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), National Examination Council (NECO) exams, and the Unified Tertiary Matriculations Examination (UTME) has sparked widespread debate among parents and educators.

This new directive, set to take effect from the next academic year, has received mixed reactions across the country. While some parents have hailed the move as a necessary step toward ensuring students are mature enough to handle the rigors of higher education, others have criticized it as a backward policy that could hinder educational progress for younger, academically advanced students.

Proponents of the policy argue that it aligns with the long-established 6-3-3-4 education system in Nigeria, which stipulates that students should begin primary school at six, complete secondary education by 18, and then proceed to higher education. According to the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, the enforcement of this age limit is intended to ensure that students are emotionally and intellectually prepared for the challenges of university life.

Alhaji Haruna Danjuma, the National President of the Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (PTA), has expressed strong support for the policy. In an interview with the Nigerian Tribune, Danjuma emphasized that the age limit is not a new concept but rather an existing policy that has not been strictly enforced. He believes this move will promote better educational outcomes and prevent underage students from rushing into higher education unprepared.

However, the policy has not been without its detractors. Critics argue that it could penalize exceptionally gifted students who may be ready for university before the age of 18. They warn that the policy may also contribute to overcrowding in secondary schools, as students who are ready for tertiary education will be forced to remain in secondary school until they meet the age requirement.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the government will address these concerns and whether the policy will be fully implemented as planned. What is certain, however, is that this decision has ignited a national conversation about the balance between academic readiness and age in Nigeria’s education system.

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