Reps Endorse Ban on Under-18 SSCE, UTME Candidates

The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education has affirmed the Federal Government’s decision to implement a minimum age requirement for candidates sitting the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE) starting in 2025. According to the new policy, candidates must be at least 18 years old to sit for the SSSCE, a stipulation that also affects admission to higher education institutions.

The policy, announced by Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman in July, has sparked considerable debate among parents and education stakeholders. In a recent interview with The PUNCH, Mark Useni, Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education, explained that the decision is unlikely to be reversed.

Useni detailed that a meeting was convened on September 4, moderated by House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvere, involving Prof. Mamman, Minister of State for Education Dr. Tanko Sununu, and leaders of basic education examination bodies. During the meeting, Prof. Mamman clarified that the age requirement aligns with policies established before the 6-3-3-4 education system and is rooted in the Universal Basic Education Act. He noted that similar age requirements exist in military and paramilitary institutions, and that Nigeria’s voting age is also set at 18.

Useni, representing Takum/Donga/Ussa Federal Constituency in Taraba State, expressed concern over younger students seeking university admission. He emphasized that while the policy aims to ensure proper educational and developmental maturity, the Ministry of Education must develop a comprehensive implementation plan. This plan should address the needs of students currently advancing through secondary education to prevent disruptions.

The committee has urged the Ministry to utilize available data to manage the transition effectively and safeguard public interest.