Government plans to end common entrance and track students with ID numbers
The Federal Government has announced plans to scrap the Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Examination. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, revealed that a Learner Identification Number will be introduced to track pupils from primary school through their academic journey. The new system aims to improve access to education and monitor students' progress. The reforms are part of efforts to address gaps in Nigeria’s education sector.
What we know
- Tunji Alausa stated the common entrance exam will be replaced by Continuous Assessment reflecting pupils’ performance from primary one.
- Millions of pupils enrolled in public primary schools do not continue their education at the secondary level, highlighting a major access problem.
- The government will introduce a unique Learner Identification Number for each pupil, which will follow them throughout their education.
- State governments have been urged to build more schools to accommodate the large number of pupils not progressing to secondary school.
- Efforts are ongoing to revive the school feeding programme to boost enrolment and retention in public schools.
