Educators Urge Students to Take Mathematics Seriously Despite Admission Policy Change

• Educators Urge Students to Take Mathematics Seriously Despite Admission Policy Change
• Educators emphasise that mathematics should continue to be taken seriously by all students
• …Recommend school assemblies, classroom discussions, and parent-teacher meetings as platforms to reinforce the importance of mathematics

The recent revision to national admission guidelines for tertiary institutions has elicited mixed reactions from teachers and education officers. While the policy aims to expand access to higher education, educators warn that its success depends on clear communication and proper implementation at school level.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Federal Government announced on 20 October that while mathematics remains compulsory for all students in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), candidates applying for arts and humanities programmes will no longer need a credit pass in the subject for university admission.

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The policy is designed to make higher education more flexible for students strong in the arts but struggling with mathematics.

However, educators emphasise that mathematics should continue to be taken seriously by all students. Mr Abel Onigbinde, Vice Principal of Community High School, Wasinmi, Maryland, Lagos, warned that some students are celebrating what they mistakenly believe is a complete removal of the subject. He stressed that mathematics is crucial for reasoning, accuracy, and logical thinking, skills that underpin success across all fields.

“Even if the policy reduces the need for a credit pass, it should not reduce the effort that students put into learning the subject,” Onigbinde said. He advised policymakers to consult classroom teachers when implementing such changes, noting that teachers best understand student behaviour and reactions.

Mr Peter Ayanwola, a mathematics teacher at the same school, reinforced the view that mathematics is a core subject for all students. He noted that its usefulness extends beyond the classroom into everyday life, decision-making, and personal development. He urged teachers to remain encouraging and supportive so students maintain interest in the subject.

Retired principal and educationist Mr Tajudeen Omotosho highlighted that mathematics is essential for both personal and professional life, including financial management, budgeting, and planning. He cautioned that the policy could be reversed at any time, potentially disadvantaging students who neglect the subject now.

The three educators agreed that proper counselling is critical to preventing misconceptions. Students must understand that mathematics remains compulsory for the SSCE and that the removal of the credit pass requirement for arts courses does not make the subject irrelevant.

They recommended school assemblies, classroom discussions, and parent-teacher meetings as platforms to reinforce the importance of mathematics, ensuring that students continue