Reconsidering The Age Limit For Admission: A Plea For JAMB And Federal Ministry of Education Magnanimity and Pardon

By Olayinka Iroye

The recent decision by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Education, to deny admission to applicants under 16 years of age despite their excellent academic performance—raises serious concerns. This policy has disqualified even candidates recommended for admission based on merit, simply because of their age, and regardless of their impressive scores in both the UTME and post-UTME screening.

It is disheartening to observe that institutions, which had earlier admitted these young students and had collected acceptance fees from them are now forced to refund these payments. The implication of this policy is that students with outstanding academic achievements are unjustly denied admission, even after being recommended for admissions to JAMB by the institutions of their choices based on merit .

While we recall that several appeals were made against this policy when it was first announced few months ago, the Minister of Education had previously assured the public that the policy would not be enforced in 2024. The Minister’s statement that this year’s admissions would be allowed to proceed, with the policy taking effect in 2025, was met with applause. However, the ongoing enforcement of this age restriction has left many brilliant candidates stranded.

On behalf of all affected candidates, I appeal to the Honourable Minister of Education, JAMB, and all other agencies and stakeholders involved in the admission process to temper justice with mercy. Let this year’s admission cycle proceed without denying those under the age of 16 admissions, and allow them to be registered at their various institutions of choice. JAMB and Ministry of Education magnanimity in this regard would be in line with the administration of President Bola Tinubu, which has professed to be youth-friendly. Such youth-centered policies should not only be evident in words but also in action.

Moreso, what do we expect these young candidates, who have been denied admission be doing until they meet the age requirement especially at a time like this when our youths are restless and eager to engage. Leaving them idle for a year or more may not be a wise decision. As the saying goes, “An idle hand is the devil’s workshop.” Denying these youths the opportunity to further their education could have detrimental consequences.

To prevent future occurrences, JAMB should establish a robust system that prevents candidates who do not meet the age requirement from registering for the UTME exams in the first place. This proactive approach will save students and their families from the disappointment of having to forfeit their admissions.

The issue of age should be addressed from the foundational level of education. The minimum entry age for primary school should be set at six years, ensuring that by the time students complete their secondary education, they meet the required age for university admissions.

May the course of education in Nigeria continue to evolve in ways that promote inclusivity, fairness, and excellence.