The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students sitting for their O’Level examinations, despite the recent review of admission requirements into tertiary institutions across the country.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government clarified that the new admission policy does not exempt any student from registering or sitting for the two core subjects. The clarification followed widespread misinterpretations of the revised O’Level framework which had led to speculation that the subjects were no longer mandatory.
The statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, explained that the reform was introduced to promote fairness, inclusiveness and flexibility in university and polytechnic admissions. The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, noted that the intention was to ensure that deserving students are not denied admission due to credit deficiencies in subjects that are not directly related to their chosen courses.
“The streamlining ensures that deserving students are not denied access to higher education because of credit deficiencies in subjects not relevant to their fields of study,” the minister said. He added that while some programmes may not require credit passes in Mathematics or English for admission, all students must still register and sit for both subjects in their O’Level examinations.
According to the ministry, the adjustment only applies to admission considerations for certain programmes and does not affect the requirement for students to study or take the subjects. “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 statement read in part.
The ministry also urged students, parents and stakeholders to rely on official government communication channels for accurate updates on policy changes. It further assured that the Federal Government remains committed to building a credible, inclusive and globally competitive education system grounded in integrity, equity and quality learning for all.