The Federal Government has announced plans to scrap the common entrance examination used for admission into Junior Secondary Schools (JSS), a move aimed at reforming Nigeria’s basic education system.
According to the Minister of Education, the decision is part of broader efforts to reduce the burden of multiple examinations on pupils and their families, while also improving access to education across the country.
The minister explained that the existing system, which requires candidates to sit for entrance examinations before gaining admission into secondary schools, has become increasingly stressful and financially demanding for parents. He noted that eliminating the exam would streamline the transition from primary to secondary education.
Under the proposed arrangement, admissions into JSS are expected to rely more on continuous assessment and internal evaluation from primary schools rather than a centralized examination. This, the government believes, will provide a more holistic measure of a child’s academic ability.
The policy is also intended to promote inclusiveness and ensure that no child is denied access to secondary education due to examination barriers. Education stakeholders have long argued that multiple entry tests create unnecessary pressure on young learners.
However, the announcement has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders in the education sector. While some welcome the move as progressive and child-friendly, others have raised concerns about maintaining standards and ensuring transparency in the admission process.
The government, however, assured that necessary frameworks would be put in place to guarantee fairness, credibility, and quality in the new system.
This development signals a significant shift in Nigeria’s education policy, as authorities continue to seek reforms that prioritize accessibility, reduce financial strain, and improve learning outcomes nationwide.
