The transformation of the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) under the visionary leadership of Professor Yahuza Sulaiman Imam marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s educational landscape. As a national examination body, NBAIS is responsible for overseeing the Senior Arabic and Islamic Secondary School Certificate Examination (SAISSCE)—a credential awarded to students graduating from Integrated Arabic and Islamic Secondary Schools that combine core disciplines such as Sciences, Arts, Commerce, English, and Mathematics alongside Arabic and Islamic Studies.
Much like the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO), NBAIS serves a crucial role in certifying students for further education. Those who complete the SAISSCE are also required to pass both the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Post-UTME (PUTME) in order to qualify for admission into Nigerian universities and other institutions of higher learning.
In a significant policy shift, key regulatory bodies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC), the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) now officially recognize SAISSCE results. This acknowledgment ensures that graduates of NBAIS-certified schools enjoy equal opportunities for admission alongside their peers from WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB-certified institutions.
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A common misconception is that students holding SAISSCE certificates are limited to Arabic or Islamic studies. On the contrary, NBAIS schools offer a comprehensive curriculum aligned with the Federal Government’s Integration of Tsangaya and Qur’anic Education (IQTE) initiative. Students receive instruction in key subjects necessary for various academic and professional pathways.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria’s recognition of the SAISSCE for entry into nursing programs is a prime example of the doors being opened. This decision has significantly broadened the scope for students from integrated Arabic and Islamic schools, especially those aspiring to enter healthcare and technical fields.
By integrating conventional subjects with religious education, these schools are empowering students with the credentials they need to thrive in today’s competitive academic environment. The ongoing reforms at NBAIS not only enhance credibility but also ensure that no student is left behind due to their educational background.