The Federal Government has announced plans to abolish the Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Examination and replace it with a unified learner tracking system aimed at improving access and continuity in education.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed the development during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos on Saturday.
According to the Minister, the reform will see the gradual phase-out of the common entrance examination traditionally required for progression into junior secondary school.
“We are moving away from the common entrance examination, It will be phased out and replaced with a more comprehensive evaluation system,”Alausa said.
He explained that the new system will include the introduction of a Learner Identification Number (LIN), a unique tracking mechanism designed to monitor pupils from primary school through their academic journey.
“The Learner Identification Number will help us track every child from the early years through their academic journey, It will ensure continuity in education and improve planning and policy implementation.” he said.
Alausa noted that the reforms are part of broader efforts by the Federal Government to enhance access to education, reduce barriers to progression, and build a more efficient, data-driven system.
“This reform is about improving access to education and ensuring that no child is left behind in the system,” he added.
Education stakeholders say the proposed changes, if fully implemented, could significantly reshape Nigeria’s basic education framework by shifting focus from one-off examinations to continuous assessment and student tracking.
Further details on the rollout timeline and implementation strategy are expected to be announced by the Ministry in due course.