FG’s Ban on Under-18 WASSCE Candidates Sparks Controversy As ASUU, NUT Differ

The Federal Government’s decision to ban candidates under the age of 18 from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and National Examination Council (NECO) has sparked controversy.

While the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) supports the policy, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has condemned it.

Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman announced the new age policy on Channels Television’s “Sunday Politics” program, stating that the minimum age for secondary school leaving examinations will be 18.

This means underage candidates will no longer be allowed to sit for WASSCE and NECO, crucial for advancing to tertiary education.

NUT Secretary-General Dr. Mike Ene argued that the policy is unrealistic, given changes in society, such as early enrollment in crèches due to economic pressures.

He suggested that the policy could only work if implemented from the foundation, starting at the primary school level.

In contrast, ASUU backed the policy, with President Emmanuel Osodeke stating that it aligns with international best practices.

The directive also affects the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) setting the age limit at 18.

Polity Reporters reports that the policy has occasioned debate, with some critics arguing that it will disadvantage young prodigies who are ready for tertiary education earlier, while others support the move, noting the need for students to mature before entering university.