By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
CLARIFICATION HAS emerged from the Federal Ministry of Education over the streamlined O-Level admission requirements, reaffirming that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects that every student must register and sit for during their O-Level examinations.
The Ministry made clear that no candidate is exempted from these two core subjects under the new framework, which focuses instead on ensuring flexibility and inclusivity in tertiary admission processes.
The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, explained that the policy reform was introduced to modernise the country’s education system and promote fairness and equal access to higher education.
He stated that the revised approach ensures capable and deserving candidates are not denied admission into tertiary institutions because of credit deficiencies in subjects that are not directly linked to their intended fields of study.
According to the Minister, the reform represents a shift towards aligning Nigeria’s education framework with global best practices.
It allows universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to admit candidates into specific programmes even when a credit pass in either English or Mathematics is not a direct prerequisite for that course.
However, all candidates must still register and sit for both subjects, maintaining them as mandatory components of O-Level examinations.
The Ministry emphasised that the adjustment does not undermine the academic value of English Language and Mathematics, which remain critical for communication, analytical reasoning, and lifelong learning.
It stated that the policy only affects admission flexibility for certain academic programmes, not the fundamental requirement to study or attempt both subjects during the Senior School Certificate Examinations.
Dr Alausa explained that the Federal Government’s decision reflects its commitment to equity, inclusiveness, and human capital development.
He noted that by streamlining the admission process, the policy removes unnecessary barriers that have previously hindered students’ progress, without compromising academic standards or the integrity of Nigeria’s education system.
The Ministry underscored that the new framework broadens academic opportunities and recognises diverse intellectual capabilities among students.
It seeks to create an enabling environment where students can pursue academic and vocational disciplines according to their strengths, interests, and career aspirations.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to maintaining high standards in education, the Ministry stated that it would continue collaborating with relevant regulatory agencies, examination councils, and tertiary institutions to ensure effective implementation of the new admission guidelines.
This collaboration, it added, will uphold national education objectives while ensuring fairness across all tiers of the education system.
The statement also urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels and verified social media platforms of the Federal Ministry of Education for accurate and up-to-date information about policies, reforms, and announcements.
It warned against misinformation and speculation that may misrepresent the intent of the new framework.
According to the Ministry, English Language and Mathematics remain indispensable tools in education and daily life, forming the foundation for literacy, numeracy, and professional competence.
The ministry said this reaffirmation follows widespread public debate and online reactions to the new admission policy, with some stakeholders expressing misunderstanding about whether the two subjects had been made optional.
The Education Ministry also concluded that it remains steadfast in its mission to deliver a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive education system rooted in integrity, excellence, and equal opportunity for all learners.
