The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain mandatory for all candidates registering for O’Level examinations, despite the recent adjustments to admission requirements for tertiary institutions.
In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry of Education stressed that the new streamlined admission policy does not waive the obligation for candidates to register or sit for the two core subjects.
The clarification, signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, followed widespread misinterpretations of the updated O’Level admission framework.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, explained that the reform was designed to promote fairness, inclusivity, and flexibility in tertiary education admissions, ensuring that competent students are not denied opportunities due to shortcomings in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields of study.
“The streamlining ensures that 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,” Alausa said.
He added that the new framework aligns with global best practices and corrects imbalances in the previous admission system by allowing institutions to admit candidates into certain programmes where credit passes in either subject are not compulsory, but all students must still register and sit for both.
“The streamlining ensures that 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,” Alausa said.
He added that the new framework aligns with global best practices and corrects imbalances in the previous admission system by allowing institutions to admit candidates into certain programmes where credit passes in either subject are not compulsory, but all students must still register and sit for both.
The ministry stressed that the adjustment only affects admission criteria for specific programmes, not the requirement 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 partly read.
The ministry said the policy supports the Federal Government’s broader goal of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, while upholding education quality and integrity.
It also urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely solely on the ministry’s official communication channels and verified social media platforms for accurate updates on reforms and policies.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to building a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive education system anchored on integrity, excellence, and equal opportunity for all learners.