The proposed 18-year-old age limit for students taking the West Africa Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has triggered widespread criticism from key stakeholders in Nigeria. While the government introduced this policy to ensure academic excellence, many education experts, former government officials, and civil society organizations have condemned the proposal as “outdated and oppressive.”
In light of the public outcry, the Senate has announced its intention to conduct a public hearing on the matter.
This latest development signals the National Assembly’s commitment to considering the opinions of stakeholders and the general public before enacting laws. The legislative arm of the Nigerian government has faced accusations of insensitivity to public opinion in the past. However, with the recent controversy over the WASSCE policy, the Assembly seems to be signaling a shift towards more participatory governance.
The education sector has been at the forefront of public discourse in Nigeria in recent years, with numerous reforms being proposed to address issues such as access, quality, and equity.
The Senate’s willingness to engage in public discourse is a promising sign for Nigeria’s education sector, which is facing various challenges, including underfunding, inadequate facilities, and a shortage of qualified teachers.
The WASSCE policy is not the only education-related issue being considered by the National Assembly. Legislators are also currently deliberating on bills to establish new universities and polytechnics in various states, underscoring the government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education. Read more from:
References and Citations
- Naija News – Nigeria NewsList Of Major Bills Pending Approval By The 10th National Assembly
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