By Tony Okafor
The recent announcement by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, to ban admissions for candidates under 18 into tertiary institutions from next year has sparked controversy.
While the intention to align our education system with the 6-3-3-4 framework is commendable, the abrupt implementation of this policy raises concerns about potential consequences on our children’s educational growth.
As Dr. Kathryn Hirsh-Pasek, a psychologist at Temple University, notes, “Age is not a barrier to learning; it’s a societal construct.”
Gifted and exceptional students, regardless of age, should be allowed to progress at their own pace.
A blanket ban may stifle their growth and deny them the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Furthermore, research by Dr. Sugata Mitra, a professor of educational technology, demonstrates that children can learn advanced concepts without adult supervision, regardless of age.
This challenges the assumption that students must be 18 to handle university-level education.
Rather than a blanket ban, the Federal Government should consider a gradual approach.
We propose a gestation period to allow the 18-admission policy to mature.
This can be achieved by stopping admissions of children below six into primary school, making it impossible for those under 12 to enter secondary school.
Additionally, the government should focus on providing quality education and skills training from primary school level to ensure our children are adequately prepared for tertiary education and the workforce.
Let us not hinder the growth of our children; instead, let us nurture and guide them towards a brighter future.
As Dr. Peter Gray, research professor at Boston College, aptly puts it, “The idea that children must be a certain age to learn something is a myth.”
The 18-University Admission Policy, although well-intentioned, requires a more nuanced approach.
By embracing flexibility and individualized learning paths, we can unlock the full potential of our children and foster a brighter future for our nation
