NMCN Directs Schools To Accept Arabic, Islamic Certificates As WAEC, NECO For Admission Into Nursing Programmes
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has issued a fresh directive reinforcing the acceptance of the Senior Arabic and Islamic Secondary School Certificate Examination (SAISSCE) as a valid entry qualification into nursing programmes.
The circular, sent to various stakeholders including commissioners of health, vice chancellors, provosts, directors of nursing services, and university teaching hospitals, underlines the Council’s commitment to inclusivity in nursing education.
The memo, on Wednesday, was signed by Ndagi Alhassan, the acting Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the nursing and midwifery council.
The Council emphasised that SAISSCE stands alongside other officially recognised certificates such as the WAEC and NECO SSCE for admission purposes.
“The Council reiterates that SAISSCE is a recognised and acceptable qualification for admission into nursing programme, alongside other recognised secondary school certificates such as the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) conducted by WAEC and NECO.”
“Please ensure that candidates presenting the SAISSCE are given due consideration for admission based on the specific requirements of the programme.
“This is consistent with the Federal Government’s approvals and the National Council on Education (NCE)’s approval of the SAISSCE in February 2011 at its 57th meeting in Sokoto, Nigeria.”
“Ensure compliance with this directive and bring the content of this circular to the attention of all concerned.”
“Thank you for your cooperation with the Council in promoting and maintaining excellence in nursing education and practice in Nigeria in line with global best practice.”
The directive raises concerns for a secular country such as Nigeria, as stakeholders condemned the move by the council.
“I am sure there might have been some “acceptance” in northern states. This is wrong. Accepting Islamic school results for admission instead of WAEC or NECO,” a stakeholder lamented.
