FG Declares English, Maths Compulsory for All Students
The Federal Government (FG) has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics continue to be essential subjects for all students registering for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), despite recent changes to university admission criteria.
This clarification came in response to public outcry following a prior announcement made by the Federal Ministry of Education on October 14, stating that mathematics would no longer be a requirement for admission into arts and humanities programs at Nigerian universities.
In a new statement released on Sunday, October 19, and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the ministry clarified that the updated admission guidelines do not free any student from the obligation to register for or take English and Mathematics in their O-Level exams.
“All students are required to continue to register and take English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations.
“The changes only pertain to the admission criteria for specific programs, not to the requirement of taking these subjects,” the statement explained.
The ministry indicated that this policy reform was implemented to enhance inclusivity and flexibility in higher education, enabling students who have not achieved credit passes in subjects irrelevant to their chosen fields to still qualify for admission.
Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the revision of O-Level requirements aimed to bring the education system in the country up to par with global standards.
“The reform was intended to encourage flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in college admissions, ensuring that capable students are not excluded from higher education due to shortcomings in non-relevant subjects,” Alausa stated.
He noted that the reform is in line with the federal government’s dedication to fairness, human capital growth, and broadening learning opportunities for everyone.
The ministry also reiterated that English and Mathematics are crucial for communication, critical thinking, and lifelong education, insisting that every student must take both subjects in their O-Level exams. The changes simply allow educational institutions to determine if a credit pass in either subject is essential for participation in programs.
When asked if the clarification was a retraction of the earlier announcement, Boriowo stated it was not a reversal but rather a clarification of the streamlined policy.
“It’s not a reversal; it’s a clarification on the updated admission requirements aimed at increasing access to higher education,” she clarified.
The ministry called on students, parents, and educational stakeholders to rely solely on official government communications for accurate policy information.
The initial announcement on October 14 regarding the removal of the mathematics requirement for arts and humanities candidates sparked considerable debate among educators, students, and parents.
Some stakeholders viewed the decision as a long-awaited move toward inclusivity, while others expressed concerns that it might reduce academic standards and hinder proficiency in critical subjects.
According to the revised National Guidelines for Entry Requirements into Nigerian Tertiary Institutions, English Language is mandatory for all programs, while Mathematics is required for fields in Science, Technology, and Social Sciences. For Arts and Humanities, while a credit in Mathematics is not needed for admission, it remains a subject that students must take during their O-Level examinations.
The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment to establishing a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive educational framework that maintains quality while ensuring access, allowing every Nigerian youth an equitable opportunity to learn and succeed.
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