JAMB Registrar Reports Minimal Challenges in Ongoing UTME
Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has reported minimal challenges during the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) across the country.
The exercise, which is being conducted in about 980 centres nationwide, has seen only about 16 centres experiencing issues, mainly related to power supply and minor technical faults.
Key Takeaways
- Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, JAMB Registrar, reported minimal challenges in the ongoing UTME.
- Only about 16 out of 980 centres experienced issues, mainly related to power supply and minor technical faults.
- JAMB has successfully conducted examinations for over 1.7 million candidates within three days.
- Registrar warned against misinformation on candidate kidnappings linked to JAMB.
- JAMB has adjusted the examination schedule from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. in response to feedbacks.
- UTME is one of the criteria for admissions, alongside O’Level requirements.
- JAMB is intensifying efforts to track and prosecute individuals offering 'exam runs' or score manipulation.
Oloyede described the exercise as largely successful, noting that only a few centres experienced issues, mainly related to power supply and minor technical faults. He said, "Like any human activity, there will be challenges, but they have been minimal."
The registrar added that despite initial concerns, the board had successfully conducted examinations for over 1.7 million candidates within three days. He commended the smooth conduct of the examination process, describing it as "superb," and praised the collaboration of stakeholders, including vice-chancellors, rectors and other academic officials serving as proctors.
On reports of candidates allegedly being kidnapped, Oloyede cautioned against misinformation, saying such claims were often not properly verified. "It is unfortunate that people were kidnapped, but linking them directly to JAMB without evidence complicates security efforts," he said.
Addressing public concerns over early arrival times for candidates, the registrar clarified that examinations do not start at 6:30 a.m., but candidates are required to arrive early for accreditation. Oloyede explained that the board had adjusted the examination schedule from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. in response to feedbacks, though the change had led to longer waiting periods for some candidates.
He also criticised widespread misconceptions about the role of UTME in admissions, stressing that it is only one of the criteria, alongside O’Level requirements.
Oloyede warned candidates and parents against engaging with fraudsters offering "exam runs" or score manipulation. According to him, JAMB has intensified efforts to track and prosecute such individuals, revealing that several suspects were already facing prosecution for exam malpractices.
He cited a case where a suspect, while in custody, continued to defraud unsuspecting parents by promising to upgrade candidates’ scores. "We have our own mechanisms to detect such fraud. Those who attempt shortcuts will be identified and sanctioned," the registrar said.
Oloyede urged the public to report fraudulent platforms on social media, while commending security agencies for their support in tackling examination malpractices. He reaffirmed JAMB’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process and ensuring credible admissions into tertiary institutions.
Why This Matters
The smooth conduct of the UTME is crucial for ensuring fair admissions into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. JAMB’s efforts to address challenges and maintain the integrity of the examination process are essential for the future of the country’s education system.