JAMB Registration Now Mandatory for NOUN and Other Open Distance Learning Centers in Nigeria

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a significant policy change affecting students of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and other open distance learning institutions in the country. Effective immediately, JAMB registration is now mandatory for all students seeking admission into these institutions.

Key Points:

1. New Requirement:
   • All prospective students of NOUN and similar open distance learning centers must now register for and take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
2. Affected Institutions:
   • National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
   • Distance learning centers of conventional universities
   • Other recognized open and distance learning institutions
3. Implementation Timeline:
   • The policy takes effect for the upcoming academic session.
   • Exact dates for UTME registration and examination will be announced by JAMB.
4. Rationale Behind the Change:
   • To standardize admission processes across all tertiary institutions
   • To ensure quality control in admissions to open and distance learning programs
   • To align with global best practices in higher education
5. Impact on Prospective Students:
   • Candidates must now prepare for and take the UTME
   • Additional costs for UTME registration and related materials
   • Potential delay in admission processes as students await UTME results
6. JAMB Cut-off Marks:
   • NOUN and other affected institutions will now be subject to JAMB’s cut-off mark system
   • Specific cut-off marks for these institutions will be determined and announced by JAMB
7. Exceptions:
   • Current students already enrolled in these institutions are not affected
   • The policy applies only to new admissions moving forward
8. Concerns and Challenges:
   • Potential reduction in accessibility, especially for working professionals and mature students
   • Increased competition for admission slots
   • Need for NOUN and similar institutions to adjust their admission calendars
9. Institutional Response:
   • NOUN and other affected institutions are expected to release official statements and guidelines for prospective students
   • Adjustments to admission processes and academic calendars are anticipated
10. JAMB’s Statement:
    • The Board emphasizes that this change aims to maintain standards and ensure that all tertiary students in Nigeria meet basic entry requirements
11. Next Steps for Prospective Students:
    • Stay updated with JAMB’s announcements regarding UTME registration
    • Check NOUN and other relevant institutions’ websites for specific guidelines
    • Prepare for the UTME alongside other admission requirements
12. Support and Information:
    • JAMB and affected institutions are expected to set up helplines and information centers to guide prospective students through this transition

This policy change represents a significant shift in the admission process for open and distance learning institutions in Nigeria. It aims to standardize the entry requirements across all tertiary institutions but may pose challenges for the unique demographic often served by these flexible learning options. Prospective students are advised to stay informed about further developments and prepare accordingly for the new admission requirements.

For more information, candidates should regularly check the official websites of JAMB, NOUN, and other relevant institutions.