Let’s Hail FG for Abolishing University Entrance Age
By Hassana Suleiman Kandi,
Over the years, many aspects of life in Nigeria have evolved. Technological advancements, education methods, and communication have all transformed, making things easier and more accessible.
In this fast-paced environment, acting swiftly has become more essential than ever, often outweighing a cautious, wait-and-see approach. In the past, specific requirements such as age, height, and educational qualifications were necessary to gain admission to schools.
However, this landscape has dramatically shifted. Recalled that the immediate-past Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, on behalf of the federal government, introduced a policy restricting university entry to individuals aged 18 and above.
This decision sparked heated debates, with many students and parents voicing their opposition to the policy. However, some believe it was a wise move, arguing that maturity plays a crucial role in navigating the challenges of university life.
After Mamman’s removal as Minister in a cabinet reshuffle last month, the new Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, introduced a policy reversing the previous rule. Under the new policy, students as young as 16 can now gain university admission.
While this development raises questions, it also has potential academic benefits for exceptional students. Nonetheless, it remains clear that maturity cannot be overlooked in the university setting.
Although this revised policy opens the doors of higher education earlier for academically gifted students, it does not change the fact that university is more than just a place for academic learning. It is also a space where life skills are developed, discipline is instilled, and emotional resilience is tested.
Many parents, driven by their desire for their children to obtain a degree, often overlook important factors when pushing for university admission. While earning a certificate is still seen as an achievement, it’s important to focus on the broader picture of student development.
Today, organizations are increasingly hiring based on skills and competency, not just academic results. In the current job market, it’s not enough to have a degree; one must also have a strategic mindset and practical skills.
In addition, widespread cases of university failure have raised concerns about the readiness of younger students to cope with the pressures of higher education. One possible way to prevent this is by applying a more thorough age-based admission policy that considers emotional maturity alongside academic capabilities.
Several factors need to be carefully considered before granting younger students access to university. Emotional stability, life skills, and the level of maturity are all crucial elements that impact a student’s success in a university environment.
Read Also:
University is a place where bold decisions are often made, and the ability to navigate challenges with confidence is essential for both academic success and personal growth. A person who lacks emotional stability is more likely to be overwhelmed by the stresses of university life.
The educational, psychological, and emotional pressures can take a toll on a young person’s mental health, potentially hindering their academic progress. It is essential for students to have the emotional resilience needed to manage these pressures.
Not all valuable knowledge is taught in the classroom. Some skills are developed through life experiences and practical application. A student who enters university immediately after secondary school may find it challenging to adjust because university assessments often require practical skills, teamwork, and critical thinking rather than just theoretical knowledge.
The ability to adapt and be versatile can be more important than what one learns from textbooks. University is a place where respect for others, especially lecturers and peers, plays a pivotal role in one’s success.
Unfortunately, many students today fail to understand the importance of discipline and respect in their academic journey. Taking lecturers and academic responsibilities for granted can lead to poor performance and unfulfilled potential.
Maturity is critical for students to fully understand the consequences of their actions and approach their studies with a serious mindset. This is not intended as criticism but rather as a call for the government to consider other alternatives.
For instance, offering a preparatory year or gap program for secondary school graduates could help them align with their interests and prepare better for university life. This program could focus on skill development, emotional maturity, and academic readiness, ensuring that students are not only prepared academically but also emotionally and socially for the challenges ahead.
By considering these factors, students will be better prepared to enter university with the right mindset. They will be able to tap into their full potential, make bold decisions, and grow without hesitation, rather than merely acting impulsively because of a new policy.
Instead of focusing solely on lowering the age for university admission, the government may also want to address other critical issues. Banning underage use of mobile phones and social media could be a starting point.
These platforms, while offering opportunities for communication, also present numerous distractions and emotional challenges for young minds. Restricting access to these platforms might help students focus more on their academic and personal development during their formative years.
Hassana Suleiman Kandi is a student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai and an intern with PRNigeria. She can be reached via: [email protected].
