In a recent development, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has indicated that the Federal Government is contemplating raising the entry age for admission into universities and other tertiary institutions to 18 years old. This proposal comes amidst concerns over the challenges faced by younger students in higher education.

During the monitoring of the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination in Abuja, Mamman highlighted the issue of underage students, suggesting that they may lack the maturity required to manage university life effectively. He urged parents to avoid pushing their children excessively, allowing them time to develop the necessary maturity before pursuing higher education.

Mamman commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for its use of technology in conducting examinations, which has significantly reduced instances of malpractice. He noted that only a minimal number of cases were reported out of the large pool of candidates.

Addressing the challenge of limited slots available in tertiary institutions compared to the high number of candidates seeking admission, Mamman emphasized the importance of skills acquisition in preparing youths for the future. He stressed that acquiring skills from an early age would empower students, even if they did not proceed to tertiary education, ensuring they could lead meaningful lives and contribute positively to society.

The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, also praised JAMB's management for maintaining high standards in the examination process. He highlighted the objectivity and reliability of results, as well as the measures implemented to prevent malpractice during the exam.

Overall, the government's focus appears to be on ensuring that students are adequately prepared for both academic and practical challenges, with an emphasis on acquiring essential skills for success in various fields.

If my pikin no reach twenty years, he's not going to any university.

Before you rush enter me,hear my reasons. First, I'm not of upper middle class of Nigeria. I know how difficult it is to survive out there so I want to prepare my kids before university life.

Instead of them rushing to university to study home economics and all those zoology and stupid courses they offer people,he will rather take his time to get his desired course that will prepare him for what is to come.

During that time,he or she will learn a very good skill (digital or otherwise) and then the university education will be to help them grow the skills they have acquired.

The major cause of unemployment currently is the fact that the employee have zero idea of what they want to do so firms are retaining their old staff instead of retiring them

The minister is a grounded scholar, his submission might be a product of research.

Very nice. Now, u see 19 year old graduates

Hmm