The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students at the O’Level level.
This clarification was contained in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo.
Boriowo said the clarification became necessary following widespread misconceptions about the recently announced streamlining of admission requirements into tertiary institutions.
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She quoted the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, as saying that the reform does not exempt any student from registering or sitting for English and Mathematics during their O’Level examinations.
According to Alausa, the new policy only introduces a more inclusive and flexible framework for tertiary admissions to ensure that capable students are not unfairly denied access to higher education due to deficiencies in non-core subjects.
He explained that the reform allows institutions to admit candidates into specific programmes where a credit pass in either English or Mathematics may not be compulsory, while still requiring all students to register and sit for both subjects.
“This reform supports the Federal Government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development. It broadens academic pathways and recognises diverse strengths among learners,” the minister stated.
Dr. Alausa emphasised that English and Mathematics remain vital tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning, noting that the adjustment affects only admission criteria, not the requirement to take the subjects.
He further advised students, parents, and other education stakeholders to rely on verified government communication channels for accurate information to avoid misinformation.
(NAN)