The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education has signaled that the Federal Government’s decision to set a minimum age requirement for candidates taking the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE) is likely to remain unchanged. In July, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, announced that beginning in 2025, students under the age of 18 would not be eligible to sit for the SSSCE, a prerequisite for admission into higher education institutions.

The policy has ignited a wave of debate among parents and education stakeholders, many of whom have expressed concerns about the potential impact on students’ academic progression and access to higher education. Critics argue that the new age restriction could disrupt the educational timelines of younger students who excel in their studies and are ready for university admission earlier than the stipulated age.

Despite the backlash, the Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education, Mark Useni, on Thursday, September 4, defended the policy and provided insights into why the government is unlikely to reverse the decision. Useni explained that the minimum age requirement aims to address the maturity and preparedness of students entering higher education, ensuring that they are not only academically ready but also psychologically and socially equipped for the challenges of tertiary institutions.

Useni emphasized that the government’s focus is on promoting holistic education and fostering environments where students can thrive both in and out of the classroom. He added that the decision aligns with broader educational reforms aimed at improving the quality of education and better preparing Nigerian youths for the demands of higher education and the workforce.