The reversal of the 18-year admission policy for Nigeria’s tertiary institutions has sparked a wave of praise from various educational bodies. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced on November 5, 2024, that the Federal Government would now adopt a 16-year benchmark for admissions, signaling a significant shift from the previous policy. This decision marks the end of a controversial rule that had been in place for nearly two decades.

In a statement during his first ministerial press briefing in Abuja, Alausa emphasized that the change was prompted by the flaws in the National Policy on Education, which initially set the higher age requirement. The new policy also introduces flexibility for exceptional students, ensuring a more inclusive approach to university admissions.

The reversal was welcomed by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), with National President Dr. Mike Ike-Ene expressing confidence in the new minister’s leadership. Ike-Ene lauded the decision as a positive move for the education sector, highlighting the importance of stakeholder involvement in shaping policies that impact the nation’s students. He stressed the need for careful deliberation in future policy-making, urging the minister to avoid being influenced by individuals with personal agendas.

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“This policy reversal is a win for parents, teachers, and students alike,” Ike-Ene remarked. “We hope this marks the beginning of more thoughtful and inclusive education reforms.”

The policy change comes after the controversial announcement in July 2024 by the former Education Minister, Prof. Tahir Mamman, who imposed a ban on the admission of students under 18 into universities starting in 2025. The decision had faced sharp criticism, particularly from private institutions and parent associations, who argued that it was implemented without sufficient consultation.

In addition to the admission policy changes, Alausa also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the issue of out-of-school children. He revealed that the Ministry of Education would collaborate with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to implement conditional cash transfer programs, aimed at incentivizing school enrollment.

Further addressing educational reforms, Alausa highlighted the need for practical training in Nigerian schools, particularly through technical education. He confirmed that 80 percent of the curriculum would focus on hands-on skills, with universities of agriculture being tasked with developing mechanized farming to help combat food insecurity.

Alausa also addressed persistent strikes in the nation’s higher education institutions, pledging a fresh start for the unions involved. He assured educational workers of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns, promising a renewed effort to end the cycle of strikes that has disrupted the academic calendar in the past.

As the new minister embarks on these reforms, many hope his leadership will bring about long-term improvements to Nigeria’s education system.