Federal Government Revises Tertiary Admission Age

The Federal Government has reinstated the minimum age for tertiary institution admission to 16 years.

This announcement was made by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during his inaugural briefing in Abuja.

Age Requirement for Admission

The decision reverts to the 16-year minimum age policy for tertiary education.

Dr. Alausa clarified that the earlier 18-year limit was based on interpretations of the National Policy on Education.

He assured that exceptions would be made for gifted students prepared for higher education earlier.

Policy Implementation and Focus

Dr. Alausa pledged to focus on implementing existing policies to improve education quality.

He highlighted the importance of equity and human capital development through education, especially for women and girls.

He commended his predecessors for their contributions and promised to enhance ongoing policies through action.

Technical and Vocational Training

The Minister announced plans to emphasise technical and vocational training in federal institutions.

Training would focus on 80% practical and 20% theoretical instruction to prepare students for the job market.

Collaboration with the private sector will aim to support mechanised farming and reduce food insecurity.

The curriculum will include renewable energy and compressed natural gas trades to prepare students for future opportunities.

Safeguarding Academic Integrity

Dr. Alausa reiterated the government’s policy against recognising certificates from certain institutions in the Benin Republic and Togo.

This measure is designed to address fraudulent academic qualifications within Nigeria’s education system.

Addressing Out-of-School Children

The Minister shared plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to reduce out-of-school children.

Conditional cash transfers will be introduced to encourage school enrolment among children.

Nutritional support programmes will also be implemented to improve student health and learning outcomes.

Remarks from the Minister of State for Education

Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, the Minister of State for Education, highlighted the importance of teamwork.

She praised the recent improvements in workplace culture and productivity within the education sector.

She reaffirmed her commitment to building a rights-focused environment that ensures integrity in education.

Support from the Ministry

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Nazir Sani-Gwazo, assured the Ministers of the Ministry’s commitment to achieving their goals.

This briefing marks a renewed focus on inclusivity, practical skills, and economic alignment in Nigeria’s education system.

The government aims to strengthen the sector in line with President Tinubu’s vision for a forward-thinking system.