FG to Scrap Common Entrance Exam, Introduce CA for JSS Admissions

FG to Scrap Common Entrance Exam, Introduce CA for JSS Admissions

FELICIA ONAH

The Federal Government has announced plans to phase out the common entrance examination for pupils seeking admission into junior secondary schools, replacing it with a Continuous Assessment (CA) system.

Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, noting that the new approach is designed to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of pupils’ academic performance.

According to the minister, the proposed CA system will track pupils’ progress from primary one through to the end of primary school, eliminating the need for a one-off entrance examination.

“It will be replaced by Continuous Assessment. The CA will reflect the performance of the pupil from primary one, and even if a pupil is transferring from one school to another, he will take it along to his new school,” Alausa said.

He explained that the reform aims to ensure a more holistic assessment process while reducing the pressure associated with a single high-stakes examination.

As part of broader education sector reforms, the minister also revealed that the government is introducing a Learner Identification Number (LIN) for every child at the primary level.

The initiative, he said, will enable authorities to monitor students’ academic journey and improve transition and completion rates up to the senior secondary level.

In addition, Alausa disclosed that efforts are underway to revive the national school feeding programme. He noted that the scheme will be transferred from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to the Federal Ministry of Education to enhance oversight and implementation.

The move, according to him, is expected to boost enrolment and retention in public schools by providing incentives for parents and pupils.

The planned reforms signal a shift in the government’s approach to basic education, with a focus on continuous evaluation, improved data tracking, and increased access to quality schooling.