Yenagoa, April 16, 2025
In a landmark decision aimed at broadening educational access, Nigerian authorities have announced that certificates from Arabic and Islamic schools will now be accepted for admission into nursing programs across universities and colleges in the country.
This policy shift recognizes qualifications issued by the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), an accredited examination body established in 1960 and endorsed by the National Council on Education in 2011. NBAIS administers national examinations in subjects including the Senior Arabic and Islamic Secondary School Certificate Examination (SAISSCE), Tahfeez, and Science curricula.
Traditionally, admission into nursing programs in Nigeria required five credit-level passes in subjects such as English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, obtained through examinations like WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB.
The inclusion of NBAIS certificates provides an alternative pathway for students from Arabic and Islamic educational backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the healthcare education sector.
Educational institutions are expected to update their admission guidelines to reflect this change, ensuring that qualified candidates from diverse educational backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue careers in nursing.
This development is anticipated to enhance the representation of individuals with Arabic and Islamic educational backgrounds in the nursing profession, contributing to a more culturally competent healthcare workforce in Nigeria.
For further information on NBAIS certifications and their acceptance in nursing programs, interested individuals can visit the official NBAIS website at https://nbais.com.ng.
