The Federal Ministry of Education has refuted claims that students under 18 years old are barred from taking the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and National Examinations Council (NECO) exams. Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, made the clarification in Abuja on Friday, stating that the ministry is working on a guideline to identify talented children who can take exams early.
Sununu emphasized that the ministry is not blocking children’s chances but rather seeking to establish a rule with exceptions for gifted students. He noted that some universities have admitted students as young as 10, 11, and 12, which is “totally wrong.”
The minister also highlighted the importance of literacy in fostering mutual understanding, peace, and socio-economic development, as the country marks International Literacy Day. The Federal Government has committed to addressing literacy challenges through the Education for Renewed Hope roadmap (2024-2027), with a focus on youth and adult literacy, and using learners’ mother tongues as a medium of instruction.
UNESCO’s Country Representative, Mr. Diallo Abdourahamane, reiterated that literacy is 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.”
