In July 2024, Nigeria’s Ministry of Education announced a controversial policy requiring students to be at least 18 years old before enrolling in any tertiary institution. This decision has sparked widespread outrage and concern among educators, parents, and students, as it threatens to hinder the country’s educational progress and economic growth.
The Ministry justified the policy by referencing the National Education Policy, which outlines specific age requirements for tertiary education. However, critics argue that this reasoning overlooks the current realities of Nigeria’s educational landscape. With over 20 million children out of school, adhering strictly to age-based criteria without considering the diverse educational needs of students is seen as counterproductive.
One major concern is the impact on students who will now face delays of two years or more after completing secondary school. This could lead to increased idleness, potentially resulting in higher crime rates and social unrest. Critics warn that keeping young people out of the educational system can create a lost generation, unable to contribute positively to society.
Furthermore, the policy may accelerate educational migration, as financially capable parents may choose to send their children abroad for higher education. This trend could widen the gap between the rich and the poor, leaving disadvantaged students with fewer opportunities and exacerbating existing inequalities in access to education.
Education is a crucial driver of economic growth, and delaying access to higher education stifles the potential of Nigeria’s youth. With a population of 223 million, 70% of whom are under 30, it is vital to create policies that empower young people rather than impose barriers to their advancement.
The policy also raises questions about the appropriateness of using age as the sole measure of a student’s readiness for university. Many young individuals demonstrate the academic maturity and critical thinking skills necessary for higher education, regardless of their age. By enforcing this age limit, capable students are being unfairly penalized.
As Nigeria strives to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims for quality education for all, it is essential to reconsider policies that could set the nation back. The Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, is urged to reflect on the potential negative impacts of this policy and to prioritize flexibility in educational guidelines to better serve the diverse needs of Nigerian students.
The new age requirement for tertiary education enrollment could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s youth and the country’s future. It is crucial for policymakers to adopt a more inclusive and adaptable approach to education that fosters growth and development for all students, regardless of age.
