The Federal Government has clarified that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students taking their O’Level examinations, despite recent adjustments to university admission requirements.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government explained that the new admission policy does not exempt any student from registering or sitting for the two core subjects.
According to the statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the clarification was necessary to address the confusion caused by misinterpretations of the new O’Level admission framework.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the reform was designed to “promote flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in tertiary education admissions,” ensuring that qualified students are not denied access due to weak grades in subjects unrelated to their chosen courses.
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“The streamlining ensures that deserving students are not denied access to higher education due to credit deficiencies in subjects that are not directly relevant to their chosen fields of study,” Alausa explained.
He added that the new system aligns with global best practices and allows institutions to admit students into certain programmes where credit passes in either subject may not be mandatory for entry. However, all students must still register and sit for both English and Mathematics.
The ministry further clarified that the adjustment affects only admission criteria for some courses and not the requirement to take the subjects.
“All students must continue to take both subjects as part of their Senior School Certificate Examinations, as they remain vital components of a sound educational foundation,” the statement read.
The ministry said the policy supports the government’s goal of promoting fairness, inclusion, and quality education while maintaining academic standards.
It also urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely only on verified ministry channels for accurate information about ongoing education reforms.
The statement reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive education system based on integrity, excellence, and equal opportunity for all learners.