“Admission Rules Adjusted, Not Exams” — FG Clarifies Mathematics Remains Compulsory For All O-Level Candidates Despite Admission Reform

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that Mathematics remains a compulsory subject for all students sitting for O-Level examinations. The clarification was issued in a press statement on Sunday by Boriowo Folashade, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Education.

The statement follows an earlier announcement on Tuesday, which had suggested that senior secondary school students in arts and humanities streams would no longer need a credit in Mathematics in their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) to gain admission into tertiary institutions.

Boriowo explained that the reform, initially aimed at expanding access for qualified candidates, had generated controversy among educationists. Critics argued that waiving the Mathematics requirement could encourage laziness and negatively affect students’ academic performance.

However, the Ministry’s latest statement made it clear that the adjustment pertains only to admission criteria and does not exempt students from taking Mathematics during their O-Level exams.

“All students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations,” the statement emphasized. “While institutions may admit candidates into certain programmes without requiring credit passes in English or Mathematics, students are still obligated to take both subjects during their exams.”

The Ministry noted that the reform aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development. “English and Mathematics remain vital tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning,” it added.

Boriowo further clarified that the statement should not be interpreted as a U-turn on the ministry’s earlier policy but as a clarification to streamline admission requirements and broaden access to tertiary education.

The Ministry also urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels for accurate and verified policy updates.

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