The Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, has announced that candidates under the age of 18 will no longer be admitted to tertiary institutions.

This directive, given during a monitoring exercise of the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, aims to align with the 6-3-3-4 education system.

Mamman expressed concern over parents pressuring underage students into university admission, emphasizing the need for children to mature before entering higher education.

He highlighted the challenges faced by young students adjusting to university life and urged parents to refrain from undue pressure. The minister stressed the importance of allowing children to transition from a controlled to an independent environment at an appropriate age to ensure their success in university education.