Table of Contents
- Concern Over Mathematics Removal
- Impact on Science Classes
- Federal Ministry of Education Statement
- ARPSSON President's Reaction
- Doubts on Sustainability
The President of the Association of Retired Principals of Secondary Schools of Nigeria (ARPSSON), Ogun State chapter, Comrade Alexander Obadimu, has expressed concerns regarding the removal of mathematics from arts and humanities courses, cautioning that this decision could lead to academic decline.
Obadimu argued that this change may deter students from pursuing science courses, ultimately hindering scientific research and innovation in the country.
It is important to note that the Federal Ministry of Education, through its spokesperson Folasade Boriowo, announced on Tuesday that senior secondary school students in the arts and humanities will no longer be required to achieve a credit in mathematics for their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) as a prerequisite for tertiary admissions.
Boriowo explained that this reform was necessary after years of limited access that prevented many qualified candidates from gaining admission. She added that while over two million candidates take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) each year, only around 700,000 secure admission.
In response to this development, the ARPSSON president, during the association’s 3rd annual congress in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, reiterated the crucial role mathematics plays in education and warned that its absence could create a gap in the planned educational outcomes.
He stated, “It is very unfortunate that such decisions could arise at this time. Many students may shy away from mathematics; it has significant benefits, and deeming it unnecessary is regrettable.”
“Many students might not even attempt to take it again, and before long, we will see a decline in academic standards. Mathematics contributes positively to education as a whole.”
He expressed skepticism about the sustainability of the reform, suggesting that non-compliance by some higher education institutions could jeopardize its effectiveness.
“I believe this policy may not last long because some higher institutions might not adhere to the decision made by the Federal Ministry of Education,” he concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was mathematics removed from arts and humanities courses?
The Federal Ministry of Education stated that the removal was necessary to increase access to tertiary education, as many qualified candidates were previously denied admission due to the mathematics requirement.
What are the potential consequences of this decision?
Comrade Alexander Obadimu warns that removing mathematics could discourage students from pursuing science subjects and lead to a decline in academic performance overall.
Will higher education institutions comply with this new policy?
There are concerns that some higher education institutions may not adhere to the new policy, which could undermine its intended effects.
