The Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (PTA) has thrown its weight behind a new government directive requiring children to be at least 12 years old before enrolling in Junior Secondary School.

This guideline, introduced in the Federal Ministry of Education’s latest policy on private or “Non-State” schools, aims to ensure children complete a full six years of primary education and reach a suitable age for secondary-level academic and emotional demands.

The updated policy also outlines a structured early education pathway: three years of nursery schooling beginning at age three, followed by a compulsory pre-primary class at age five. Children are expected to enter Primary One at age six, progressing through a nine-year basic education cycle—six years of primary and three years of junior secondary schooling.

Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, PTA National President Alhaji Haruna Danjuma described the development as a positive step that aligns with long-standing concerns from parents. He stressed that 12 years is a more appropriate age for entry into secondary school, as it better equips students for the academic journey ahead.

Danjuma noted that under the new system, students would likely complete secondary school at 18—an age he considers more appropriate for transitioning into university. He warned that admitting children into higher education too early places them in environments they may not be mature enough to handle.

“This structure makes sense,” he said. “A child who starts JSS1 at 12 will likely finish secondary school at 18, which is the right age to handle university life.”

The policy is part of broader efforts to standardize education timelines and improve learning outcomes across both government and private institutions in Nigeria.