The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students registering for their O’Level examinations, despite the recent review of admission criteria for tertiary institutions.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government clarified that the new policy on streamlined admission requirements does not exempt any candidate from registering or sitting for the two core subjects.
The clarification, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, followed widespread misinterpretations of the newly introduced O’Level admission framework.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, explained that the reform aims to promote flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in the admission process, ensuring that qualified candidates are not denied access to higher education over deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields.
“The streamlining ensures that deserving students are not denied access to higher education due to credit deficiencies in subjects that are not directly relevant to their chosen fields of study,” Alausa stated.
He further emphasized that while the new framework allows institutions to admit students into specific programmes where a credit in either subject may not be required, all candidates must still register and take both English Language and Mathematics.
The ministry stressed that the adjustment only affects admission criteria for certain courses and not the mandatory inclusion of the subjects in the Senior School Certificate Examinations.
“All students must continue to take both subjects as part of their Senior School Certificate Examinations, as they remain vital components of a sound educational foundation,” the statement read in part.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting equitable access and inclusivity in education while maintaining standards, integrity, and global competitiveness.
It also urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels for accurate updates on policy changes and reforms.