The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that it has not stopped students under the age of 18 from writing the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) exams.
This clarification was made by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, in Abuja on Friday during an event to mark the 2024 International Literacy Day (ILD).
Clarification on Age Requirements
Dr. Sununu expressed disappointment over the public’s misconception and misinterpretation of remarks made by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman. He explained that Prof. Mamman’s comments were in reference to the recommended age of entry into tertiary institutions, as practiced in the 6:3:3:4 system of education, rather than a restriction on sitting for WASSCE or NECO exams.
“It was shocking to say that a university in this country gave admission to children at ages 10, 11, and 12 years. This is totally wrong. We are not saying that there are no exceptions; we know we can have talented students that have the IQ of an adult even at ages 6 and 7, but these are very few,” Dr. Sununu said.
Development of Guidelines
The ministry is working on developing guidelines to identify talented children, ensuring that parents do not feel their children’s opportunities are being blocked. “Nobody said no child will write WAEC, NECO or any other examination unless at age 18. This is a misconception and misrepresentation of what we have said,” Dr. Sununu clarified.
Emphasis on Literacy
During the event, Dr. Sununu underscored the critical role of literacy in fostering mutual understanding, peace, and socio-economic development. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing literacy challenges through the Education for Renewed Hope roadmap (2024-2027), with a focus on youth and adult literacy.
Multilingual Education
Dr. Sununu highlighted the importance of using learners’ mother tongues as a medium of instruction, emphasizing that this approach will foster mutual understanding and peace. He also stressed the need for well-trained educators who can teach in local languages and develop follow-up reading materials in these languages.
International Literacy Day
The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-formal Education, Prof. Simon Akpama, reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to integrating multilingual education into schools’ literacy programs. UNESCO’s Country Representative, Mr. Diallo Abdourahamane, reiterated that literacy remains a fundamental human right, essential for creating a just, peaceful, and sustainable society.
The theme for this year’s International Literacy Day celebration is “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace,” which is celebrated annually on September 8.
