The Federal Government has indicated that exceptionally intelligent children below 18 years may soon be allowed to write the West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) exams, despite the new age restrictions. This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during a visit to the Federal Government Academy in Suleja on Thursday.
Speaking during the tour, Prof. Mamman explained that the government is considering developing specific criteria to identify gifted children who may be exempt from the age limit policy. This decision comes as part of the government’s broader effort to support talented students who show advanced intellectual capabilities.
“It may not [apply to gifted children], and we are going to develop criteria to guide what we will call gifted children,” the minister said in response to questions about how the new education policy might affect young students with extraordinary academic potential.
During the visit, Prof. Mamman, accompanied by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, also announced a two-week extension for the resumption of students at the Federal Government Academy in Suleja. The decision was made due to ongoing renovation works at the school. The students, originally scheduled to return on September 8, will now resume on September 18, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Prof. Mamman emphasized that the students should not be exposed to an unconducive learning environment, citing the incomplete plumbing, water, and other essential facilities due to ongoing construction.
“We cannot have these young children here when there is work ongoing. The plumbing facility, showers, water, and everything are a bit unstructured because of the ongoing work, so the facility needs to be ready,” he explained.
The minister also expressed concern over the current state of the school, pledging that the government would provide the necessary support to upgrade it to the expected standard for a school meant for gifted students. He acknowledged the decay in infrastructure across schools in Nigeria and assured that significant improvements would be made to provide students with an ideal learning environment.
“This is the only school of its kind in the country, where we are supposed to assemble students who demonstrate special aptitude and capacity for special training. For us to showcase the school, we need to ensure that the necessary supportive infrastructure is there,” he said.
Additionally, Prof. Mamman praised the newly constructed skills acquisition centre at the school, noting that it aligns with the government’s new educational focus. He highlighted the importance of equipping students with practical skills from an early age, allowing them to be self-reliant after completing secondary school.
He added, “Skills development is the new direction for education in Nigeria from the foundation level to senior secondary schools. This will help Nigerians develop practical skills to enhance their lives and careers.”
The minister’s remarks reflect the government’s commitment to fostering the academic and practical development of Nigerian students, especially those with exceptional intellectual abilities.
