The Federal Government has introduced a new policy mandating that children must be at least 12 years old before gaining admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1). The guideline, announced Thursday, is part of a broader effort to align educational standards with the national policy on education, which stipulates six years of primary education before progression to secondary school.

According to the Ministry of Education, the new directive aims to curb the growing trend of underage admissions, which officials say has contributed to academic underperformance, social adjustment issues, and discipline challenges in secondary schools. Education stakeholders have been directed to enforce the age limit strictly, beginning with the upcoming academic session.

The policy has sparked widespread reactions among parents, educators, and school administrators. While some commend the move as a step toward improving learning outcomes, others express concerns over potential disruptions for students already in the system. The Ministry, however, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring quality and age-appropriate education, urging schools nationwide to comply fully with the new guideline.