The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has expressed concerns that the mandatory age requirement of 18 for admission into tertiary institutions could hinder students’ academic progress. Prof. Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, had proposed to enforce this ban on underage admissions starting in 2025 during a stakeholders meeting about JAMB policies in 2024.
On the other hand, Prof. Isa’aq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB, has also voiced worries about candidates under the age of 18 taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
In an interview with NewsNow, Dr. Mike Ike-Ene, the Secretary-General of NUT, argued that extending the deadline to 2025 would not be effective. He suggested that the government should implement a policy starting six years from September of the current year, requiring children to be at least six years old to begin primary education.
“These policies must be thought through carefully. Starting primary education at six years allows for a standardized twelve-year academic journey, ensuring that students are adequately prepared for university by the time they turn eighteen,” Ike-Ene explained.
Questioning the sudden shift in policy, Ike-Ene highlighted potential discrimination against gifted children who may complete their education early. He emphasized the importance of conducting thorough research and public consultations before enforcing such significant changes in the education sector.
Educator and Founder of Florishgate Consult, Mrs. Dideolu Adekogbe, commended the decision to set 18 as the minimum age for tertiary education, citing the benefits of maturity and foundational development for students entering higher institutions.
Adekogbe stressed the significance of adhering to rules and regulations to address the challenges of underage admissions in universities, emphasizing the role of government agencies in enforcing and monitoring compliance with the new policy.
“Properly preparing students for adulthood through education is crucial for their success in various life aspects. Adulthood demands responsibility and skills acquired over years of structured learning,” Adekogbe elaborated.
She underscored the need for collaboration between universities and the government to ensure successful implementation of the age requirement policy, emphasizing the long-term benefits of a well-rounded education system in shaping individuals’ lives.