Yemi Obafemi
A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has said the Federal Government policy for age limit in writing WAEC and NECO will reduce access to educational opportunities.
Mumuni disclosed this while urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stop the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, from banning students below the age of 18 from writing the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) exams.
Recall the Minister Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, disclosed under 18-year age would no longer be allowed to take part in National Examinations Council and West African Examinations Council exams.
According to him, the policy when implemented will increase school dropout rates and will also have psychological and social effects on the students.
In a statement signed by Mumuni media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, advising Tinubu to stop Mamman from implementing the policy.
“I am appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stop the minister from implementing such an obnoxious policy. It will cause more harm than the expected results. This policy will reduce access to educational opportunities. Restricting students under 18 from participating in WASSCE could hinder their progression in the education system, delaying their transition to higher education or vocational training.
“It will also increase school dropout rates. Young students who feel they are unable to take the examinations may lose motivation to continue their education, leading to increased dropout rates.
“The policy, when implemented, will also have psychological and social effects on the students. The pressure of not being able to sit for exams can lead to feelings of inadequacy or stress among students, especially those who are academically inclined.
“Also, the policy will lead to delayed career aspirations. Students may face an extended period before they can enter tertiary education or vocational training, affecting their career prospects and long-term earning potential. If only older students are allowed to take the exams, there could be a bottleneck effect where older candidates face increased competition, making it harder to secure places in higher education.”
