The Federal Government has confirmed Nigerians that Mathematics remains a compulsory subject for all candidates sitting the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), following debates over a recent review of tertiary admission requirements.
Last week, the Federal Ministry of Education had announced that students in the arts stream would no longer require a credit in Mathematics to gain admission into tertiary institutions.
Round Reports observed that the announcement ignited nationwide debates, with critics arguing that it could weaken the importance of core subjects.
In response, the ministry’s spokesperson, Boriowo Folasade, clarified that the policy does not make Mathematics optional for SSCE candidates.
Folasade explained that the recent policy adjustment is aimed at creating a more inclusive approach to tertiary admissions, ensuring students are not barred from programmes because of credit deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields.
The statement also stressed the enduring importance of the two subjects, describing them as "fundamental tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning" and essential for a solid educational foundation.
"The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified the intent behind the recently streamlined O-Level admission requirements into tertiary institutions, reaffirming that all students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics for their O-Level examinations.
"The Ministry emphasized that the new policy does not exempt any candidate from registering and sitting for these two core subjects but rather introduces a more inclusive and flexible approach to tertiary admission requirements.
"The adjustment affects only the admission criteria for certain programmes, not the requirement to study or sit for these subjects.
"Capable and deserving students are not denied access to higher education due to credit deficiencies in subjects that are not directly relevant to their chosen fields of study.
"The policy also reinforces the central importance of English Language and Mathematics as fundamental tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning.
"All students must continue to take both subjects as part of their Senior School Certificate Examinations, as they remain vital components of a sound educational foundation.
"The adjustment affects only the admission criteria for certain programmes, not the requirement to study or sit for these subjects," the statement read.
Comments
Post a Comment