JAMB Introduces Extra Exams for Underage Candidates: What You Need to Know
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a new policy aimed at ensuring that only qualified candidates take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). As part of this update, four additional exams have been introduced for underage candidates who wish to sit for the UTME.
JAMB’s Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, revealed this decision during his inspection of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in Ilorin, Kwara State. The policy aims to safeguard the integrity of the admission process and ensure fairness for all candidates.
Why This Move Matters
The introduction of these extra exams is part of a larger effort to maintain high standards in Nigeria’s higher education system. The goal is simple: only qualified candidates should be able to gain admission into universities and other tertiary institutions. To ensure this, underage candidates will now be required to meet specific academic criteria before sitting for the UTME.
Key Details of the New Policy
- Indemnity Letter Requirement: Underage candidates must sign an indemnity letter before sitting for the UTME. This letter holds parents or guardians accountable for the candidate’s readiness and ability to meet the requirements of the examination.
- Sanctions for Non-Compliance: Candidates who fail to meet the established age and academic standards will face sanctions. This is part of JAMB’s effort to ensure fairness and prevent abuse of the system by parents or guardians.
Addressing the Underage Candidate Issue
Professor Oloyede highlighted a concerning trend where some parents push their children to sit for the UTME at an early age, often to fulfil personal ambitions. JAMB is determined to tackle this issue, ensuring that the admission process remains transparent and fair for all students, regardless of age or background.
Age Limit Controversy
The debate over age limits for university admission has been ongoing. Initially, the former Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, introduced a rule stating that candidates must be at least 18 years old to gain admission. However, this policy faced criticism for excluding younger candidates who were academically ready. The current Minister of Education, Professor Tunji Alausa, has reversed this decision, restoring the previous requirements that allow younger candidates to be considered for admission.
Conclusion
This new policy by JAMB marks an important step towards ensuring that Nigeria’s tertiary education system remains fair and transparent. Candidates, particularly those underage, are urged to meet the necessary standards and take full responsibility for their readiness to participate in the UTME.
As JAMB continues to fine-tune its processes, students, parents, and educators are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for the changes ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as the examination board rolls out these new measures!
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