The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has expressed strong opposition to the Federal Government’s newly instituted age policy for secondary school leaving examinations. The policy, announced by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, mandates that students must be at least 18 years old to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) conducted by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and the National Examination Council (NECO).
Dr. Mike Ene, the Secretary-General of the NUT, criticized the policy as outdated and impractical given the current economic realities that compel parents to enroll their children in school at an early age. Ene argued that the policy fails to consider the early learning that children undergo due to economic pressures, which often leads to early enrollment in crèches and primary schools.
Ene emphasized that the policy could only be effective if it addresses early enrollment from the primary school level. He recalled past practices where children had to pass basic tests before starting school, a method he believes is no longer feasible due to changes in societal and economic conditions. He also highlighted the potential negative impact on exceptional students who may be ready for these examinations before turning 18, suggesting that the policy could lead to numerous legal challenges.
The NUT’s reaction underscores the need for the government to rethink the policy thoroughly, taking into account the diverse educational needs and circumstances of Nigerian students.
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