PTA Backs Federal Government’s Decision to Ban Under-18 Candidates from WASSCE, NECO

The Parents Teachers’ Association (PTA) has expressed support for the Federal Government’s new policy banning candidates under the age of 18 from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examination Council (NECO).

National President of PTA stated that the policy is not new but rather a reinforcement of existing regulations. He emphasized that WASSCE and NECO exams are designed for mature students who have reached the age of 18, and that underage candidates should not be allowed to sit for these crucial exams.

He said, “I expressed my support for the education policy. The minister is not introducing a new policy; it has always been part of the education system. When students sit for WASSCE or NECO at 18 years old, they have reached an age of maturity. Such exams are not for immature students or under 18. You shouldn’t expect underage students in universities or sitting WASSCE and NECO. That’s the standard we followed; even my children did not enter university before turning 18.

“If they are old enough, they will be fully prepared and mature enough to face the challenges that come with attending a higher institution. This is the correct approach; students should take their exams at 18.”

Education experts, including CEO of Flourishgate Consult, Mrs. Dideolu Adekogbe, and Head of School at Juniper Hill School, Surulere, Lagos, Mrs. Ajibike Bakare, also commended the policy, citing the need for emotional maturity and cognitive development before advancing to tertiary education.

However, Bakare suggested that vocational training centers be established for those under 18 to acquire valuable skills during the interim period before university.

Enforcement of the policy is expected to commence soon, with appropriate consequences for non-compliance.