The newly appointed Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa has pegged the University entry age at 16, thereby reversing the 18 years entry age for university admission policy initiated by Professor Tahir Mamman, former Minister of Education.
Addressing journalists shortly after assuming office on Tuesday, Alausa expressed strong concerns regarding the policy, stating that it was detrimental to the Federal Government.
Alausa said the reversal of the policy was aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
He said the policy is also not sustainable for the education sector, explaining that the 16-year-age limit would be maintained and exceptions would be granted for "gifted children".
The new minister added that going forward, Nigeria's education system will be 80 percent practical and 20 percent classroom/theoretical.
Alausa said practical education will help to curb the unemployment situation in Nigeria as tertiary institutions will not continue churning out graduates on a yearly basis without jobs for Nigerians.
He said the Federal Government will work with private sector operators for the training of students to unleash their potentials.
Alausa was among the 10 ministers who got new portfolios after last month's cabinet reshuffle which led to the exit of his predecessor.
He previously served as the Minister of State for Health, where he played a crucial role in shaping health policies and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare delivery in the country.
During his tenure, he focused on addressing key health challenges, promoting public health awareness, and enhancing the overall efficiency of health services.
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