National Assembly Intervenes in Debate Over Proposed Age Limit for WASSCE Candidates

The National Assembly has moved to address the escalating controversy surrounding the Federal Government’s proposal to impose an age limit of 18 years for students taking the West Africa Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The proposal, announced by the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has been met with widespread criticism from various quarters, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and multiple civil society organizations (CSOs).

Critics have labeled the policy “archaic and draconian,” calling on the government to halt its implementation and engage in consultations with education stakeholders to discuss the implications.

In response to the growing public backlash, the Senate has announced plans to conduct a public hearing on the issue when it is formally presented to the lawmakers.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, stated, “The Senate will consider, through its relevant committee, public views on any government policy brought to our legislative notice. Whatever is brought to the Senate for constitutional and statutory approval will be subjected to legislative scrutiny, including public hearings.”

Similarly, Akin Rotimi, spokesman for the House of Representatives, noted that the House has not yet taken a position on the proposed age limit, as the matter has not been formally presented.

“I cannot comment at this time. When the House resumes and the issue is brought forward, it will be thoroughly examined,” Rotimi said.

The intervention by the National Assembly reflects the sensitivity of the matter and the need for a comprehensive dialogue involving all stakeholders in the education sector.