Opposition to the Federal Government’s proposal of an 18-year benchmark for students to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has been growing, with parents and students calling for a rethink. The Education Minister announced that starting from 2025, students below 18 years will not be allowed to take the exam, following a trend set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Parents like Hannah Ibikunle and Ayanleke Nafisat are against the proposal, highlighting concerns about delaying students’ access to education and the impact on academic performance. Teacher Bisi Olatunde suggested that such a policy should start from the primary school level. Students like Olagoke Esther and Olawuyi Elizabeth expressed worries about the emotional and academic setbacks the policy may cause, emphasizing the need for a more holistic approach.
This opposition showcases the diverse perspectives surrounding the government’s proposed age limit for educational assessments, sparking a debate on its potential effects on students’ academic journey and overall well-being.