Category Archives: Education

FG denies raising JSS1 minimum age for admission to 12

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The Federal Ministry of Education has debunked a misleading report by The Punch Newspaper claiming that the minimum age for admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1) has been raised to 12 years.

In a statement released on Friday in Abuja by the Ministry’s Director of Press, Mrs Folasade Boriowo, the Ministry said the report was entirely inaccurate.

She added that it did not come from any official source and did not reflect government policy.

She clarified, “For the avoidance of doubt, the minimum age for admission into JSS1 remains 10 years.

Accordingly, no child should complete primary education below the age of 10.”

Read Also: FG debunks rumour of WAEC, NECO cancellation

Boriowo urged the public and education stakeholders to disregard any contrary claims.

The statement also quoted the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, who reaffirmed that the prescribed minimum age for admission into Nigerian universities is 16 years.

He emphasised that the policy was consistent, non-negotiable, and applied regardless of how early a student completed secondary school.

“The Ministry maintains that this age benchmark ensures the cognitive and emotional readiness of students for higher academic engagement,” the statement added.

The Federal Ministry of Education urged the public, educational institutions, and media outlets to always seek clarification from official sources before acting on or publishing unverified information.

(NAN)

Trump halts Student Loan forgiveness under IBR plan

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The U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration has quietly suspended student loan forgiveness under the Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan, leaving millions of borrowers in limbo with no clear timeline for when the process will resume.

IBR is one of the four federal income-driven repayment (IDR) plans designed to ease loan burdens by tying monthly payments to a borrower’s income and family size. After 20 or 25 years of consistent payments, borrowers are promised loan forgiveness. Unlike the other plans currently entangled in court injunctions, IBR had remained unaffected—until now.

In a recently updated FAQ, the Department of Education stated:“IBR forgiveness is paused while our systems are updated to accurately count months not affected by the court’s injunction. IBR forgiveness will resume once those updates are completed.”

Read Also: Trump signs order withdrawing US from UN bodies

This development has caused confusion among borrowers and experts alike, as IBR is not subject to any court injunction, unlike the three other plans — Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR), Pay As You Earn (PAYE), and Saving on a Valuable Education (Save) — which are currently on hold due to ongoing litigation.

Student loan servicers report that they have not received any official direction from the Department since mid-January regarding the processing of IBR forgiveness. Many were surprised by the update, given that IBR is the only remaining plan legally authorized to forgive loans without interference.

The controversy stems from a court ruling that halted the Save plan — a flagship Biden-era repayment program — after Republican-led states challenged its legality. The Save plan, introduced under the 1993 Higher Education Act, promised lower monthly payments and faster forgiveness, but courts found the legal basis insufficient. That ruling also put a hold on loan discharges through PAYE and ICR, which rely on the same statute.

IBR, on the other hand, was created by Congress in 2007 with explicit authority to grant forgiveness after the repayment term, which is why it had remained functional — until now.

With interest set to resume on Save loans starting August 1, despite payments being paused, many of the program’s 7.7 million enrollees are being urged to switch to IBR. However, the suspension of forgiveness processing may discourage such moves, especially if the department fails to provide clarity soon.

Adding to the uncertainty, a new tax law signed by President Donald Trump earlier this month officially terminates the Save program, giving borrowers until 2028 to exit the plan.

As borrowers await further guidance, concerns are rising that millions could find themselves stuck in a repayment plan with no immediate path to loan forgiveness — a potentially devastating blow to those who have spent decades making payments in good faith.

FG debunks rumour of WAEC, NECO cancellation

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The Federal Ministry of Education has warned Nigerians to disregard  false and misleading statement circulating online, alleging the cancellation of the 2025 WAEC examinations due to widespread malpractice.

This is contained in a statement  in Abuja on Sunday by the Director Press, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Folasade Boriowo.

“The Ministry wishes to categorically disassociate itself from this fake news and clarify the following:

“The 2025 WAEC Examinations have been successfully concluded, with only a few isolated incidents of malpractice reported, all of which were promptly addressed by the relevant authorities.

“The ongoing NECO examinations are progressing smoothly, and as of this release, no cases of examination malpractice have been reported,” she said.

Read Also: How to check WAEC result 2024

Boriowo explained further that the Ministry had not received any official communication or report from WAEC, NECO, or any examination body regarding widespread malpractice in either of the examinations.

She urged students, parents, school administrators, and the general public to disregard the fake press release currently in circulation.

” It is entirely fabricated, misleading, and intended to cause unnecessary panic and confusion.

“The public is advised to seek information only from verified and credible sources, including the official website of the Federal Ministry of Education: www.education.gov.ng,” she added.

Other official website for verification are: www.waecnigeria.org, www.neco.gov.ng.

She explained that the ministry remained fully committed to upholding the integrity, credibility, and orderly conduct of all public examinations and wound continue working closely with examination bodies to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

She added that anyone found spreading false information would be reported to the appropriate security agencies for investigation and prosecution.

(NAN)

Gov. Otu appoints Francisca Bassey as substantive VC of UniCross

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Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has approved the appointment of Prof. Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River (UniCross).

The announcement was made in a statement issued by Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Secretary to the State Government, on Thursday. According to the statement, the appointment takes immediate effect, following the recommendation of the university’s Governing Council.

Prof. Bassey had served as acting Vice Chancellor for the past six months after taking over from Prof. Augustine Angba.

Owan-Enoh stated that the governor’s approval reflects his administration’s continued commitment to placing capable and competent individuals in strategic leadership positions across the state.

Read Also: Gov Okpebholo swears in three judges

He described the appointment as a testament to the governor’s belief that leadership in tertiary education should be anchored on competence, integrity, and vision.

While congratulating Prof. Bassey on her appointment, Owan-Enoh charged her to provide transformational leadership that would consolidate ongoing reforms and position UniCross as a centre of academic excellence, research, and innovation.

He assured the new Vice Chancellor of the state government’s full support in her new role, adding that education remains a central pillar of the Otu-led administration’s “People’s First” agenda.

“You are stepping into a role that demands courage, creativity, and character,” the SSG said. “The future of our university system must be anchored on global standards, and I have every confidence that you will lead with distinction.”

Top 10 States with the best NYSC Orientation Camps in Nigeria 2025

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The latest National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) postings have, once again, sparked mixed feelings—especially among prospective corps members assigned to northern states.

With persistent security challenges like banditry and kidnapping, the appeal of the NYSC scheme has diminished for many. What once symbolised national unity and adventure now raises concerns about safety and distance from home. For a program that often sends young Nigerians to remote corners of the country, the excitement of national service can quickly be overshadowed by harsh realities.

Yet, despite ongoing calls for reforms—or even the scrapping—of the scheme, the NYSC remains a core part of Nigeria’s post-tertiary experience. Over the years, various states have made efforts to improve camp infrastructure, offering corps members a more comfortable and secure environment during their three-week orientation.

While no two camps offer exactly the same experience, some clearly stand out.

From cleaner facilities and reliable utilities to safer environments and better coordination, here are the Top 10 NYSC Orientation Camps in Nigeria for 2025—based on feedback, infrastructure, and overall organisation.

1. Ogun State – Sagamu Camp

Known for its neat environment, consistent power supply, and well-kept hostels, the Sagamu camp ranks high among corps members. Add quality meals and welcoming locals to the mix, and you have a great start to your service year.

2. Lagos State – Iyana Ipaja Camp

Highly competitive and well-secured, this camp benefits from being in Nigeria’s commercial capital. It boasts excellent coordination, networking opportunities, and top-tier facilities. However, getting posted here is tough due to high demand.

3. Plateau State – Mangu Camp

Set against a backdrop of beautiful scenery and cool weather, Mangu camp offers a peaceful and refreshing orientation experience. Its wide spaces and relaxed atmosphere make it a favourite among corps members.

Read Also: N77,000 allowance to commence in March, says NYSC DG

4. Akwa Ibom State – Nsit Atai Camp

Visually appealing and efficiently run, this camp offers modern amenities, constant water supply, and impressive cleanliness. The friendliness of locals also makes life in camp more enjoyable.

5. Cross River State – Obubra Camp

Calm, well-disciplined, and welcoming—Obubra camp in Cross River is noted for its orderly system and supportive camp officials. Corps members often describe their experience here as well-managed and memorable.

6. Enugu State – Awgu Camp

Awgu camp combines comfort with learning, offering good accommodation, sanitation, and engaging training workshops. The eastern hospitality makes it even more appealing for many first-timers.

7. Osun State – Ede Camp

If you’re looking for a balance between culture and structure, Ede camp delivers. Its lively social atmosphere, functional infrastructure, and cultural activities make it an all-round exciting orientation destination.

8. Anambra State – Umuawulu/Mbaukwu Camp

One of Nigeria’s newest and most modern NYSC camps, this facility boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and excellent sanitation. The state government’s support enhances the overall comfort and safety of corps members.

9. Kwara State – Yikpata Camp

Located in a serene, nature-rich area, Yikpata camp is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and health-conscious environment. The camp’s structured daily routine adds to its appeal.

10. Rivers State – Nonwa-Gbam Tai Camp

Known for its strong sense of order, Nonwa-Gbam camp offers clean surroundings, efficient food distribution, and robust security measures. Its accessible location is another plus.

JAMB Change of Course: Alternative courses you can study with low 2025 UTME score (140–180)

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If you scored between 140 and 180 in your 2025 UTME? Don’t worry—your dreams of gaining admission into a Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education are still very much alive.

With the JAMB Change of Course option, candidates with lower UTME scores can switch to courses with lower cut-off marks, increasing their chances of securing admission.

Many reputable institutions across Nigeria—including state universities, polytechnics, and private universities—offer a variety of courses that accept UTME scores within this range.

Below is a categorized list of courses in Science, Arts, and Commercial fields that you can consider if your JAMB score falls between 140 and 180:

A. Science Courses (JAMB Score: 140–180)

Fisheries
Study of aquatic ecosystems, fish farming, and seafood production for food and commerce.

Agricultural Science
Covers crop cultivation, animal husbandry, soil science, and sustainable food systems.

Home Science and Nutrition
Focuses on healthy living, human nutrition, family resource management, and meal planning.

Animal Science
Deals with the biology, breeding, and welfare of livestock and domestic animals.

Botany
Scientific study of plants, including their anatomy, physiology, and ecological importance.

Anatomy
Provides foundational knowledge of the human body—ideal for careers in health sciences.

Marine Biology
Explores life in oceans and seas, studying marine organisms and ecosystems.

Read Also: NASS clears JAMB of alleged misappropriation

Zoology
Investigates animal behavior, classification, habitats, and evolution.

Science Laboratory Technology
Trains students in laboratory practices, diagnostics, and applied scientific research.

B. Art Courses (JAMB Score: 140–180)

Arabic Studies
Deep dive into Arabic language, literature, Islamic philosophy, and cultural heritage.

Archaeology
Study of ancient human civilizations through artifacts and historic ruins.

Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
Examines Christian doctrines, ethics, history, and theological principles.

Fine Arts
Includes painting, sculpture, drawing, and other visual art forms.

Drama / Performing Arts
Focuses on acting, directing, and stagecraft in theatre productions.

Theatre Arts
Broader scope involving playwriting, set design, costume design, and drama theory.

English Language
Covers grammar, literature, phonetics, linguistics, and effective communication.

French
Offers proficiency in the French language and understanding of Francophone cultures.

History and International Studies
Combines historical analysis with international relations, diplomacy, and global affairs.

Music
Covers music theory, instrumental skills, vocal training, and composition.

C. Commercial Courses (JAMB Score: 140–180)

Business Administration
Study of entrepreneurship, management, organizational behavior, and finance.

Public Administration
Focuses on governance, public policy, and the structure of public institutions.

Marketing
Covers sales strategies, consumer behavior, advertising, and market research.

Insurance
Teaches risk assessment, underwriting, and financial protection services.

Taxation
Focuses on tax policies, laws, planning, and revenue administration.

Criminology and Security Studies
Examines criminal behavior, law enforcement systems, and national security management.

Library and Information Science
Trains students in data management, cataloguing, and modern information systems.

Hospitality and Tourism Management
Covers hotel operations, travel planning, and customer service in the tourism industry.

Political Science
Studies political theories, government systems, policy analysis, and political behavior.

Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
Focuses on conflict management, peacebuilding, mediation, and societal harmony.

FULL GUIDE: How to check your 2025 JAMB results

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced the release of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results.

In a statement released on Monday, JAMB disclosed that over 75% of candidates who took the 2025 UTME scored below 200.

How to Check Your JAMB 2025 Result via SMS

Option 1: SMS Method

To check your 2025 UTME result through SMS, follow these steps:

  • Send UTMERESULT to 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number you used during registration.
  • You will receive your result as a text message shortly after.

Read Also: NASS clears JAMB of alleged misappropriation

Here are the possible response messages you might receive:

  • If you use a phone number different from the one used during registration:
    “This phone number was not used for registration.”
  • If your result is available:
    “Dear Mr/Miss X, your result is as follows…” (Your scores will follow).
  • If your result has been withheld:
    “Result Withheld.”
  • If JAMB is awaiting further documentation from you:
    “Result withheld pending the upload of clarifications/documents required from you.”
  • If you were absent for the exam:
    “CANDIDATE ABSENT.”
  • If your registration number was also cancelled due to absence:
    “ABSENT WITH REGISTRATION NUMBER ALSO CANCELLED.”
  • If you entered the exam hall without proper authorization:
    “Invalid Entrance into the Exam Hall.”

Option 2: Check Your UTME Result Online

You can also view your result online by following these steps:

  1. Visit the JAMB eFacility Portal:
    Go to https://efacility.jamb.gov.ng/login on your browser.
  2. Log In:
    Use the email address and password you registered with during UTME.
  3. View Your Result:
    After logging in, click on the “Check UTME Results” link to view your subject-by-subject scores on your dashboard.

Cuppy launches university hardship fund at King’s College London

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Nigerian singer, philanthropist, and youth advocate Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, popularly known as Cuppy, has once again taken bold steps in advancing educational opportunities for African students.

In a landmark announcement, she unveiled the Cuppy Foundation’s 2024 report while introducing a new Hardship Fund at King’s College London, dedicated to supporting African students facing financial difficulties.

Speaking on this initiative, Cuppy emphasized the importance of education in fostering social change:

“This year has been a milestone for the Cuppy Foundation, with our work extending across borders and impacting lives globally. Our collaborations, including initiatives with the United Nations, Save The Children, and The King’s Trust, have supported communities across Africa and the diaspora, amplifying our vision of fostering global change through education.”

The Cuppy Foundation has continued to expand its reach beyond Nigeria and Africa, positioning itself as a force for change in global education equity.

The 2024 report highlights some of the foundation’s key achievements, including:
•Furthering its partnership with Save the Children to provide education, child protection, nutrition, and reproductive health interventions for vulnerable populations.
•Supporting African students through the University Hardship Fund at Oxford University, New York University and now at King’s College London.
•Strengthening its global influence through partnerships with leading humanitarian and educational institutions.

King’s College London Hardship Fund: A Lifeline for African Students

With a strong belief in education as a right, not a privilege, the Cuppy Foundation has launched the King’s College London Hardship Fund to alleviate financial burdens on African students pursuing higher education. Many African students in the UK struggle due to fluctuating exchange rates, visa restrictions, and rising living costs. This fund ensures that talented students are not forced to abandon their academic dreams due to financial difficulties.

“Education has always been at the heart of what we do at the Cuppy Foundation. Establishing this Hardship Fund at King’s College London is another step towards ensuring that African students receive the support they need to complete their studies and thrive,” said Cuppy.

The fund will be administered through a transparent selection process, with representatives from the Foundation and King’s College London overseeing applications and disbursement.

Beyond financial support, Cuppy has leveraged her global platform to advocate for African students and youth development. In March, she spearheaded the “Change A Girl’s Life” campaign for the Kings Trust, championing gender equity and business development. As an ambassador for The King’s Trust International, she further solidified her influence in philanthropic and educational initiatives.

Kat Farram, King’s Trust International Fundraising Director, praised Cuppy’s dedication: “Cuppy is a fantastic ambassador for The King’s Trust International. Her boundless passion for empowering young people and supporting our work worldwide is inspiring.”

Since its establishment in 2018, the Cuppy Foundation has consistently championed youth empowerment, education, and social welfare initiatives across Africa and beyond. From funding primary healthcare and education programs in Nigeria to supporting students at top global institutions, the foundation is reshaping the future of many young Africans.

With the launch of the King’s College London Hardship Fund, the foundation reinforces its mission to break financial barriers in education and ensure that the next generation of African leaders, innovators, and changemakers has the opportunities they deserve.

For more information about the Cuppy Foundation’s 2024 report and upcoming initiatives, visit www.cuppyfoundation.org.

Ekiti Polytechnic gets new registrar 

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The newly appointed Registrar, Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, Mrs Abimbola Adewumi has on Tuesday resumed office.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adewumi was appointed on Jan. 23 as the second substantive registrar of the polytechnic.

She holds a BA.Ed in English from the Lagos State University (LASU), as well as a Masters in Human Resources Management from the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti.

In her inaugural address, she expressed her deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve in the capacity of a registrar, describing her appointment as a call to service.

Read Also: 16 governors set up minimum wage committees

She assured the polytechnic community of her unwavering commitment to excellence and pledged to discharge her duties responsibly.

“I will work assiduously not to disappoint the polytechnic and the state government. This position is a call to service and I pledge to discharge my duty responsibly.

“To all members of staff, I want to use this opportunity to solicit your unflinching support, loyalty and dedication to service with the right attitude and discipline,” she said.

Earlier, the Rector of the institution, Dr Sunday Ajeigbe, congratulated the new registrar and urged her to contribute her quota to the growth of institution.

He stressed the need for teamwork and strategic leadership in advancing the polytechnic’s vision, while assuring her of the management’s support in achieving the institution developmental goals.

(NAN)

NASS clears JAMB of alleged misappropriation

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The National Assembly Joint Committee on Finance has exonerated the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), of  alleged misappropriation of funds in its 2024 budget implementation.

Chairman of the committee, Sen . Sani Musa in a statement on Thursday,  said the board was erroneously accused of reckless spendings, given the documents submitted to the committee by JAMB.

He said the committee had during the budget defence session with the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede , alleged that the examination body spent N1.1 billion on meals , N850 million for fumigation among others.

Sani said the JAMB Registrar had made efforts to explain how the alleged expenditure were made but was overruled by the committee, adding that the committee requested that JAMB presented it with details of its budgetary appropriation and spendings in 2024 and 2025.

Read Also: FULL LIST: Top 10 best universities worldwide 2025

Sani in the statement said: “For the purpose of clarity, the comprehensive report provided by JAMB indicated that the line items mentioned during Monday’s hearing on revenue did not suggest any mismanagement or misuse of the board’s funds.

“On the contrary, the report highlighted the responsible and prudent use of resources under the leadership of the registrar.

“The registrar  deserves commendation for demonstrating financial discipline and accountability in managing the board’s resources effectively.

“This level of stewardship serves as a model for public institutions across the nation.”

(NAN)