Minister of Education Directs JAMB to Enforce Minimum Admission Age of 18 for Tertiary Institution

 The Minister of Education has issued a directive to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to ensure that all candidates admitted into tertiary institutions in Nigeria must be at least 18 years old. This policy aims to standardize the age of admission and promote a more mature and prepared student body in higher education.

In a formal announcement, the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, emphasized the importance of this new policy. "The decision to enforce a minimum admission age of 18 is in the best interest of both the students and the institutions. It ensures that students are more mentally and emotionally prepared for the challenges of tertiary education," he stated.

This directive aligns with global educational standards and is expected to improve the quality of education by admitting students who have attained a certain level of maturity. The policy is also seen as a way to address concerns about the readiness and adaptability of younger students in a tertiary education environment.

JAMB, the body responsible for administering entrance examinations and overseeing admissions into Nigerian tertiary institutions, has been instructed to implement this directive with immediate effect. Professor Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB, confirmed that the board is prepared to enforce the new age requirement in the upcoming admission cycles.

"JAMB is committed to complying with the directive from the Minister of Education. We will update our admission guidelines to reflect this change and ensure that all candidates meet the minimum age requirement of 18 years before they can be considered for admission," Professor Oloyede said.

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The announcement has generated mixed reactions among stakeholders in the education sector. Some parents and students have expressed concerns about the potential delay in starting higher education. However, many educators and administrators have welcomed the move, highlighting the benefits of having more mature students in tertiary institutions.

Dr. Grace Okon, an education consultant, praised the policy, stating, "This is a positive step towards improving the quality of our tertiary education. Older students are generally better prepared for the rigors of higher education and are more likely to succeed academically and socially."

The Ministry of Education plans to launch an awareness campaign to inform prospective students, parents, and educational institutions about the new age requirement. This campaign aims to ensure a smooth transition and address any concerns or misconceptions about the policy.

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As the new age requirement takes effect, it is expected to bring about significant changes in the admission landscape of Nigerian tertiary institutions, fostering a more mature and prepared student population ready to excel in their academic pursuits.