The Concerned Parents and Educators, CPE has called for immediate reassessment of the 18 years age restrictions on West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) eligibility by the Minister of Education.
The group’s coordinator and CEO of Edumark Consult, Yinka Ogunde made the call on Friday August 30, 2024 during a press briefing.
The group warned the federal government of the long-term consequences for the youth and society if the age eligibility is not immediately revisited.
“The Concerned Parents and Educators says the recent directive issued by the Minister of Education, Professor Takur Mamman which prohibits students under the age of 18 from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is deeply worrisome.
“This decision highlights, once again, the arbitrary processes often employed in governmental decision-making, especially in matters that critically affect the future of our youth.
“The implications of this directive are far-reaching and potentially detrimental and we therefore urge the Minister to reconsider the implications of this decision”, the group’s coordinator stated.
“The government should realise that hundreds of thousands of students may find themselves idling on the streets for an extended period of two to three years, merely awaiting the chance to sit for an examination that could shape their futures.
Ogunde said, CPE believes that instead of imposing such restrictions at the terminal stage of secondary education, it would be more prudent to address the issue from its foundation. Compliance with existing admission guidelines could peg primary school admission age at 6 years and secondary school admission age at 12 years.
“Implementing a structured system that considers age from the onset of a student’s academic journey would foster a more effective and fair educational environment.
She, added that such a system would prevent abrupt and disruptive changes at crucial academic stages, thereby supporting a smoother transition through the educational system.
“We urge a thoughtful and comprehensive review of the potential impacts, and to engage in dialogue with stakeholders to devise a more balanced solution”, Ogunde advocated.
