The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has shaken up Nigeria’s education landscape with the abolition of the 18-year age limit for tertiary education.
Dr. Alausa announced this decision on Wednesday during his inaugural press conference in Abuja.
The minister’s decision reverses a recent policy that required students to be at least 18 years old to enter university.
He stated that the 18-year limit was restrictive and did not serve Nigeria’s educational goals.
“We must allow our youth to pursue their education based on their abilities, not their age,” he declared.
Dr. Alausa hinted at a possible overhaul of Nigeria’s entire education policy.
He acknowledged that Nigeria’s current education system has many challenges, and he is prepared to address them.
A key concern he highlighted was the nation’s rising unemployment rate, particularly among graduates.
According to him, the focus on theoretical knowledge has left many young Nigerians without practical skills or job prospects.
“Our graduates deserve more than just certificates,” Dr. Alausa said passionately.
He argued that a new approach focused on practical, skill-based education could reduce unemployment.
To address this issue, the minister pledged a partnership between the government and the private sector.
This collaboration, he explained, would help equip students with skills relevant to the modern economy.
“Our students must be ready for the real world,” Dr. Alausa emphasized.
He added that such partnerships would offer students opportunities for training that align with industry needs.
Dr. Alausa also discussed the issue of “fake” degree certificates obtained from universities in Togo and Benin Republic.
The Federal Government recently nullified over 22,700 degrees awarded by institutions in these countries.
Alausa stood firmly by this decision, reiterating that these degrees would remain invalid.
He stressed the importance of quality and legitimacy in Nigeria’s education system.
“Degrees from unaccredited institutions will not be recognized here,” he stated resolutely.
Alausa’s stance sends a clear warning to students and parents considering unregulated foreign institutions.
He advised young Nigerians to seek reputable educational institutions to avoid problems in the future.
The minister also outlined his vision for Nigeria’s agricultural universities.
He plans to empower these institutions to adopt commercial farming practices.
By doing so, he believes the universities can play a direct role in combating Nigeria’s food insecurity.
“Our universities of agriculture must not be theoretical,” he said.
According to Alausa, agriculture universities can contribute to the economy by producing food and generating income.
He emphasized that practical, hands-on experiences are essential for students in this field.
“Our goal is not only to educate but also to feed our nation,” Dr. Alausa remarked.
However, not everyone agrees with his decision to abolish the age limit.
Some critics argue that younger students may lack the maturity needed for tertiary education.
Despite this, many parents and students have welcomed the removal of the 18-year age restriction.
