FG Makes U-Turn, Says Maths Compulsory For Arts Students
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the initial excitement among Arts and Humanities students over the Federal Government’s recent announcement regarding the non-compulsory status of Mathematics for tertiary admission may have been premature, as the government has now clarified its stance.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory for all O’Level students, regardless of their intended course of study.
This clarification comes days after the Ministry announced a policy reform suggesting that Mathematics would no longer be mandatory for students applying to study Arts and Humanities at Nigerian universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and Innovation Enterprise Institutions.
The initial announcement sparked widespread jubilation among students who struggle with Mathematics but wish to pursue non-science-related disciplines.
However, in a follow-up statement titled “English and Mathematics Remain Compulsory for All O’Level Students — FG Clarifies Streamlined Admission Requirements”, the Ministry emphasized that the new policy only affects admission requirements—not the obligation to register for and sit the subjects.
“The Federal Ministry of Education clarifies that all students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations,” the statement read.
According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, the reform is designed to promote fairness and flexibility in the tertiary admission process—particularly for students applying to non-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programmes.
“The reform promotes inclusiveness by ensuring capable students are not denied admission solely due to deficiencies in non-core subjects,” the Minister said.
The Ministry further explained that while tertiary institutions may now exercise some flexibility in their admission criteria—allowing students to be admitted into certain programmes even without a credit pass in either English or Mathematics—students are still required to take both subjects at the O’Level.
The policy shift, the Ministry said, is part of a broader initiative to modernize Nigeria’s education system, align it with global standards, and recognize the diverse academic strengths of learners across the country.
It also supports the Federal Government’s goals of equitable access, human capital development, and inclusive education.
Students, parents, and stakeholders have been advised to rely on official channels for accurate information and updates regarding educational policies.
