By Ademuyiwa Balikis
The Federal Ministry of Education has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all O’Level students to register and sit for in their Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE), following public misunderstanding that trailed its earlier announcement on streamlined admission guidelines.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the Ministry clarified that the adjustment in O’Level admission requirements affects only admission criteria for certain programmes, not the requirement to study or sit for English and Mathematics.
The clarification comes after an earlier communication suggested that candidates applying for Arts and Humanities programmes might no longer need a credit pass in Mathematics to gain admission. That initial statement, though aimed at increasing flexibility and inclusiveness in tertiary education admissions, had been widely misinterpreted as the government abolishing Mathematics entirely for some students.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, explained that the reform seeks to promote fairness, inclusivity, and access to higher education across Nigeria. According to him, the new policy ensures that capable and deserving students are not denied tertiary education opportunities simply because they lack a credit in a subject not directly related to their chosen field of study.
He stressed, however, that all students must continue to register and sit for both English Language and Mathematics in their O’Level examinations, as these two subjects remain fundamental tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning.
The Ministry emphasized that the restructured guidelines were introduced to modernize Nigeria’s education system in line with global best practices and to broaden academic pathways for students with different intellectual strengths. It assured that the policy will remove unnecessary barriers to admission without compromising educational standards.
Reiterating its stance, the Ministry urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels and verified social media platforms of the Federal Ministry of Education for accurate and up to date information regarding policies and reforms.
“The adjustment affects only the admission criteria for certain programmes, not the requirement to study or sit for these subjects,” the statement clarified.
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.
