The Federal Ministry of Education clarified that students under 18 are not barred from taking WASSCE or NECO exams. Minister of State Dr. Yusuf Sununu addressed misconceptions about age requirements, emphasizing the need for guidelines while advocating for literacy and multilingual education for mutual understanding and peace.
The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that it has not barred students under the age of 18 from participating in the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or the National Examinations Council (NECO) exams. This statement was made by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, during an event marking the 2024 International Literacy Day in Abuja.
Sununu emphasized that the confusion arose from a misinterpretation of comments made by Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman regarding the entry age for tertiary institutions, which aligns with the 6:3:3:4 education system. He stated, “Nobody said no child will write WAEC, NECO or any other examination unless at age 18. This is a misconception.” Sununu acknowledged that while there are exceptionally talented children, strict guidelines are necessary to ensure appropriate admission practices, particularly concerning very young candidates.
The minister underscored the importance of literacy for socio-economic development and peace, reaffirming the government's commitment to enhancing literacy through the Education for Renewed Hope roadmap (2024-2027). He also highlighted the role of multilingual education in fostering mutual understanding, urging the use of learners’ mother tongues in educational settings. Prof. Simon Akpama, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, echoed the need for multilingual approaches to be integrated into literacy programs. UNESCO’s Country Representative, Mr. Diallo Abdourahamane, reiterated that literacy is a fundamental human right essential for creating just and sustainable societies.
