By Ella Michaels
The Federal Government's recent decision to prohibit under-18 candidates from taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examination Council (NECO) exams has generated mixed reactions from stakeholders. The Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, announced the new policy on Channels Television's 'Sunday Politics' program, setting the minimum age at 18.
While the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) supports the policy, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and other stakeholders have condemned it, citing unrealistic expectations and potential legal challenges. The NUT argues that exceptional students who may be younger but academically advanced were not considered in the policy.
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) also questioned the government's priorities, pointing out inconsistencies such as allowing child marriages in the North while restricting younger students from taking WAEC. ASUP called on the government to focus on critical issues like providing functional equipment in schools and improving teachers' welfare.
ASUU, on the other hand, supports the policy, stating that children should follow the standard academic progression and be allowed to mature before entering university. The union questioned the rush to enter university, emphasizing that adulthood begins at 18.
The controversy surrounding the new policy highlights the need for a comprehensive review of the education system, considering the diverse perspectives and concerns of stakeholders.
