A Professor of Educational Management at the University of Ilorin, Yunus Fasasi, has advised parents not to rush their children into higher Educational institutions.
He gave the advice while delivering the 256th inaugural lecture at the University of Ilorin on Thursday.
Fasasi’s statements against the background of children gaining admission to university at a very young age highlight the complexity and implications of early academic excellence.
Early admission to university can provide exceptional opportunities for gifted children to develop their talents and reach their full potential.
However, it also raises concerns about the social and emotional well-being of these young students, who may face challenges in adapting to the university environment and interacting with older peers.
Additionally, the pressure to excel academically from a young age can have detrimental effects on the mental health and overall well-being of these children.
The idea of allowing children to mature before completing their education is a valuable perspective that emphasizes the importance of holistic development and life skills acquisition.
By prioritizing personal growth and life experiences, individuals can emerge as well-equipped, self-assured, and capable individuals ready to embrace the complexities of the modern world.
According to the university lecturer, both physical and mental development will prepare a child to cope with the rigours and challenges of life.
Recall that the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, while monitoring the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination in Abuja said that the Federal Government plans to review and peg the minimum entry age into Tertiary Institutions in the country at 18 years.
The minister advised parents against pushing their children and wards “too much” to allow them to attain some level of maturity to be able to better manage their affairs.
Meanwhile, speaking in an interview with our correspondent after delivering his lecture titled “Holding Education Accountable For Resources and Results”, Fasasi cautioned parents and guardians from rushing their wards into higher institutions.
He said, “Parents and stakeholders should be sensitized on psycho-emotional and other consequences inherent in allowing double promotion for their wards.”
The lecturer added that an immature child would not be able to face the exigencies of life.
Urging strict adherence to the National Policy on Education on admission is crucial for promoting excellence, fairness, and inclusivity in the educational system.
“The national policy on education has divided education into stages and accompanied same with ages, but parents are in a hurry. Parents have forgotten that there are stages for the mental and physical development of a child.
“If a child is not well-developed physically and mentally and is rushed to a higher institution he will misbehave in the future,” he added.
