The Minister of Education, Dr Morufu Olatunji Alausa, has reversed the policy on the minimum entry age for university admission, previously set at 18 years.
The policy, introduced by the former Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, had sparked public outcry.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday upon assuming office, Dr Alausa stated that the 18-year age policy was counterproductive to the federal government’s efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children.
He affirmed that the 16-year age limit would be reinstated, with special provisions made for “gifted children.”
“The policy was detrimental to the federal government’s efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children in the country,” Alausa said.
He added that maintaining a sustainable education system was crucial for national development.
The Minister also highlighted plans to shift Nigeria’s educational structure to an 80 per cent practical and 20 per cent theoretical approach.
He stressed that practical education is essential for addressing unemployment, noting that “tertiary institutions will not continue churning out graduates on a yearly basis without jobs for Nigerians.”
Alausa revealed that the federal government would collaborate with private sector partners to train students and harness their potential effectively.
Dr Alausa was appointed Minister of Education after last month’s cabinet reshuffle, which saw the exit of his predecessor. He previously served as the Minister of State for Health.
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