The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has commenced electronic registration for the 2025 Universal Basic Education (UBE) by Continuous Assessment Scores (CAS) and placement test. According to a circular signed by the Director of the Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo, the registration would run from Monday, January 27 to Friday, April 18, 2025.
The circular further clarified the eligibility criteria, stating, “Only primary six pupils in public and approved private primary schools in Lagos State are eligible to participate in the UBE by CAS and Placement Test. Registration is free for public primary schools, while pupils of approved private primary schools are required to pay N5,000 per candidate through the Lagos State Central Billing System.”
A Digital Leap in Education Enrollment
The introduction of the e-registration system signifies a digital transformation in the educational sector of Lagos State. Previously, the registration process for UBE tests was largely manual, which posed challenges in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility. Now, with the new electronic Geographic Information System (e-GIS) portal unveiled by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, parents and guardians can navigate through the registration process from the comfort of their homes. This digital platform not only streamlines the application process but also aims to eliminate common issues like file mismanagement and reduce unnecessary costs associated with physical paperwork.
Understanding the UBE Placement Test
The UBE Placement Test, also known as the Universal Basic Education by Continuous Assessment Scores (CAS) and Placement Test, is a crucial evaluation tool used by Lagos State to determine the academic readiness of primary six students for secondary education. This test assesses students’ knowledge in core subjects including Mathematics, English Language, Basic Science and Technology, and now, notably, the Yoruba language.
- Objective: The primary goal of the UBE Placement Test is to ensure that students are placed in secondary schools that match their academic capabilities and interests, thereby promoting equitable educational opportunities.
- Structure: The test incorporates both continuous assessment scores from primary school and a standardized test. The continuous assessment component evaluates students’ performance throughout their primary education, while the placement test provides a snapshot of their current knowledge and skills.
- Importance: This test not only aids in the seamless transition from primary to secondary education but also helps in identifying areas where students might need additional support or advanced learning opportunities.
Yoruba Language Integration
One of the most notable aspects of this year’s UBE test is the inclusion of the Yoruba language as a key assessment subject. This decision aligns with broader efforts to revitalize and promote Indigenous languages within the educational framework. The initiative has been supported by various stakeholders, including educationalists, cultural organizations, and government bodies, emphasizing the importance of linguistic heritage in education. The move to include Yoruba in the assessment is seen as a step towards ensuring that young learners are not only proficient in English but also deeply connected to their cultural roots.
The Lagos State Government’s decision to make Yoruba a compulsory subject in schools was highlighted by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, who stressed the importance of preserving the Yoruba language and culture to prevent its extinction. This reflects a broader cultural policy where the last week of September is now dedicated as “Yoruba Week” to celebrate and promote Yoruba heritage annually.
Community and Parental Response
The community’s response has been largely positive, with parents and educators praising the ease of the new registration system and the cultural initiative. Social media platforms and local news outlets have seen an uptick in discussions around the importance of cultural education and the practical benefits of the new digital registration system.
Looking Forward
As Lagos continues to push forward with its educational initiatives, the focus on integrating technology with cultural education promises to set a benchmark for other states in Nigeria. The combination of modern technology with traditional values aims not only to educate but also to preserve the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
For more information on registration and educational updates in Lagos, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the official state educational websites or follow relevant social media channels for ongoing updates and guidance.
