By Kolawole Ojebisi
The new Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji. Alausa has repealed the age of 18 set as benchmark for entry into tertiary institutions across the country.
He also hinted at the possibility of a holistic review of the nation’s education policy.
However, the minister stated that there would be no reversal of the Federal Government’s decision to void over 22,700 degree certificates obtained by Nigerians from some “fake” universities in neighbouring Togo and the Benin Republic.
Alausa spoke on Tuesday at his inaugural ministerial press conference, which is ongoing in Abuja.
Speaking on the significance of the practical education introduced into the education curriculum recently, the minister said vocational training would arm students with skills that can earn them livelihood.
Alausa stressed that the introduction of practical education will put an end to graduates’ unemployment in the country.
He said that the growing number of unemployed graduates in the country is worrisome adding that something drastic needed to be done urgently.
The minister mentioned that the federal government will collaborate with private sector operators to train students and unleash their potential.
Alausa added that universities of agriculture will be empowered to adopt commercial farming practices to combat food insecurity.
