The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has announced a new policy: students under 18 years old are no longer eligible for admission to universities and other higher learning institutions in Nigeria. This decision was revealed during the 2024 policy meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
The minister explained that the Federal Government is considering adopting 18 years as the minimum age for university entry. This move aligns with the country’s 6-3-3-4 education system, which represents 6 years of primary school, 3 years of junior secondary school, 3 years of senior secondary school, and 4 years of university education.
Prof. Mamman also mentioned that for those students who do not meet the age requirement for university admission, the Ministry of Education plans to introduce skills training programs. These programs will start from primary school, ensuring that students acquire valuable skills even if they are not immediately eligible for tertiary education.
This policy aims to ensure that students are more mature and better prepared for the demands of higher education. Additionally, it seeks to provide alternative pathways for younger students to develop their skills and talents.
Mamman said,
“JAMB is hereby notified that there is now a ban on underaged students, those under the age of 18 into our tertiary institutions from this 2024 admissions,”
The Federal Government believes that setting a minimum age for university admissions will improve the overall quality of education and better prepare students for their future careers. By focusing on skill acquisition from an early age, the government hopes to create a more versatile and capable workforce.
As this policy is implemented, schools and parents will need to adjust their plans to ensure that students meet the new age requirement. Meanwhile, the introduction of skills training programs offers a promising alternative for students who are not yet 18, providing them with opportunities to learn and grow in other meaningful ways.
