Education Reform: FG to Replace Common Entrance with Learner Tracking System

The Federal Government has announced sweeping reforms in the education sector, including the elimination of the Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Exam and the introduction of a unique Learner Identification Number (LIN) to follow pupils’ educational journey from primary school onwards. Minister of Education Tunji Alausa shared the details during a press session with journalists […]

The Federal Government has announced sweeping reforms in the education sector, including the elimination of the Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Exam and the introduction of a unique Learner Identification Number (LIN) to follow pupils’ educational journey from primary school onwards.

Minister of Education Tunji Alausa shared the details during a press session with journalists in Lagos, noting that the reforms are designed to expand access to education and enhance monitoring of student progress nationwide.

Under the new plan, students will no longer sit the common entrance test. Instead, Continuous Assessment (CA) will track performance from primary one and remain portable if a student transfers schools. The system ensures that academic records are consistent and gaps in learning are identified early.

Alausa highlighted alarming figures, explaining that only a small fraction of the 23 million pupils in public primary schools advance to junior secondary education. “The data shows a critical gap in access,” he said, urging states to build additional schools to accommodate more learners.

The introduction of the Learner Identification Number will give each child a unique ID, allowing authorities to monitor progress, identify dropouts, and provide timely interventions to support retention.

The minister also confirmed plans to revive the school feeding programme, which could be managed centrally under the Federal Ministry of Education for improved efficiency. These measures are part of the government’s commitment to strengthen the education system, enhance pupil retention, and ensure more children complete their basic education successfully.