22. August 2025
Admin
Ekiti Parents Appeal to JAMB to Allow Students Turning 16 into University
Concerned parents in Ekiti have formally appealed to the Federal Government, the Registrar of JAMB, and the Minister of Education to permit students who will turn 16 by the end of the 2025/2026 academic year to be eligible for university admission.
Quick Insight: Though not opposed to the 16-year admission age policy, parents argue this restriction should apply starting from primary school entry—not when students are close to university-ready—citing the emotional and academic disruption it causes.
The Parents’ Request
Representing the group, Prof. Atiba Adeniran Samuel emphasized that teenagers who have passed all prerequisite exams should not be penalized by the policy. He appealed for flexibility by allowing those turning 16 by September 30, 2026, to gain admission now, while urging that enforcement begin earlier—at the point of school entry.
Emotional & Academic Concerns
Parents argue postponing admission undermines students’ emotional well-being, stating, “A teenager who has passed all prerequisite exams should be allowed to continue their academic journey—and colleges allow them to write the exam only to reject admission.” They urged JAMB to revisit the policy’s timing to avoid needless disruption.
Call for Inclusive Dialogue
The group suggests engaging younger Vice Chancellors and private university leaders who might offer fresh perspectives. They’ve appealed to President Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu for “urgent intervention,” as university admissions for the 2025/2026 session near closure.
Summary at a Glance
- Parents support a minimum admission age policy, but insist it should begin at school entry, not university admission.
- They advocate for immediate exceptions for students turning 16 by 30 September 2026.
- They urge inclusion of private universities and younger academic leaders in policy discussions.
- Appeal made to President Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu for timely intervention.
Reminder: With most universities finalizing admissions for the 2025/2026 academic year, swift policy review is essential to prevent affected students from losing a year of academic progress.
