Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and halt the proposed policy by Minister of Education Tahir Mamman, which seeks to prohibit students under the age of 18 from participating in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) exams.
In a statement released to DAILY POST, Mumuni expressed grave concerns about the potential negative consequences of such a ban. He argued that restricting underage students from taking these critical examinations could have far-reaching effects on their educational trajectories and overall well-being.
Mumuni outlined several key issues that could arise from the implementation of this policy:
1. Delayed Educational Progression: The ban could hinder students’ ability to transition smoothly into higher education or vocational training, thereby affecting their career paths and aspirations.
2. Increased Dropout Rates: Young students who feel unable to take the exams may lose motivation to continue their education, potentially leading to higher dropout rates.
3. Psychological Effects: The pressure of being unable to sit for exams could result in significant stress and feelings of inadequacy among students, particularly those who are academically inclined.
4. Career Aspirations: The policy could extend the time required for students to enter the workforce or pursue further education, negatively impacting their long-term earning potential and career development.
5. Increased Competition: Allowing only older students to take the exams could create a bottleneck effect in higher education admissions, making it more challenging for older candidates to secure places in tertiary institutions.
Mumuni’s statement highlights the critical need for educational policies that consider the aspirations and needs of young students. As discussions on this issue continue, the APC chieftain’s appeal emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach that safeguards both the integrity of the education system and the future of Nigeria’s youth.