FG Clarifies Misconception on New Admission Requirements: English and Maths Still Mandatory

The Federal Ministry of Education has issued a clarification regarding widespread misconceptions about the recently streamlined admission policy. Contrary to some interpretations, students are still required to sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O'Level examinations.

The Misconception

Following the announcement of revised admission requirements, some believed that the new policy allowed students to skip English Language and Mathematics examinations entirely. This interpretation is incorrect.

Official Clarification

The Ministry has confirmed that all students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics for their O-Level examinations. The policy does not exempt any candidate from taking these core subjects.

What Actually Changed

The reform provides tertiary institutions with flexibility in their admission criteria for specific programmes where credit passes in these subjects may not be directly relevant. However, this only affects admission requirements for certain courses—not the examination requirements themselves.

Ministry's Rationale

According to Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, this approach aims to "promote flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in tertiary education admissions." The goal is to prevent capable students from being denied higher education due to subject-specific credit deficiencies unrelated to their chosen fields of study.

Key Takeaway

Students must still study and take both English Language and Mathematics at WASSCE/NECO. The adjustment only affects which subjects are mandatory for admission to specific programmes at tertiary institutions.