In a major policy shift announced Tuesday, the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) declared that mathematics will no longer be a compulsory credit requirement for arts and humanities students seeking admission into Nigerian universities and polytechnics.
For decades, tertiary institutions have demanded five credit passes, including mathematics and English, for admission, regardless of field of study.
Under the revised National Guidelines for Entry Requirements, however, mathematics will only remain mandatory for Science, Technology, and Social Science courses.
“The revised National Guidelines for Entry Requirements into Nigerian Tertiary Institutions are designed to remove barriers while maintaining academic standards,” said the FME’s spokesperson, Folasade Boriowo.
Here is how the new framework will be applied:
- Universities: Applicants must have five credit passes in relevant subjects (including English). Mathematics will be required only for Science and Social Science courses.
- Polytechnics (ND level): Four credit passes in relevant subjects, including English. Mathematics is required only for programs in science.
- Polytechnics (HND level): Five credit passes, including English and Mathematics.
- Colleges of Education (NCE level): Four credit passes in relevant subjects. English is mandatory for Arts and Social Science, while Mathematics remains mandatory for Science, Vocational, and Technical tracks.
Education analyst Ayodamola Oluwatoyin, speaking in Abuja, applauded the reform, calling it “a brilliant step that will broaden access and ease admissions for many students.”
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the move as a purposeful decision to expand educational inclusion.
