The 2025 mock Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations were met with widespread frustration and condemnation from parents due to significant logistical failures and delays. The examination, intended as a practice run for prospective university students, was marred by technical issues, network problems, and a general lack of organization, leading to substantial disruptions in the scheduled testing times. Parents expressed their anger and disappointment, characterizing JAMB’s leadership as “failed administrators” and questioning the relevance of the examination in the current admissions landscape.
The widespread disruptions affected numerous testing centers across the country, with many students unable to commence their Computer Based Tests (CBTs) at the scheduled times. In Yola, the Adamawa State capital, several centers experienced significant delays, with some examinations starting as late as six hours after the designated time. One CBT official attributed the delays to poor network connectivity emanating from JAMB’s central office, highlighting the reliance on a centralized system that proved unreliable. This technical failure had cascading effects, as the backlog of delayed examinations forced rescheduling for many students, adding further stress and expense for the affected families.
Parents who had traveled considerable distances to accompany their children to the examination centers expressed their frustration at the wasted time and resources. The delays not only disrupted students’ preparation but also imposed additional financial burdens on families, as they had to accommodate unforeseen expenses related to extended stays and rescheduled travel arrangements. The overall sentiment among parents was one of disillusionment and anger, with many questioning the utility of JAMB as an admissions requirement.
The core issue at the heart of the parents’ discontent lies in the perceived disconnect between JAMB’s role and the autonomy of tertiary institutions in determining their admissions quotas. Many parents questioned the necessity of a centralized examination system when universities ultimately have the power to set their own admission criteria and numbers. This sentiment reflects a broader debate about the effectiveness and relevance of JAMB in the context of evolving university admissions practices.
The logistical failures of the mock examination raise serious concerns about JAMB’s preparedness for the actual examinations. The technical issues, network problems, and organizational shortcomings experienced during the mock test highlight the urgent need for JAMB to address these deficiencies before the main examinations. Failure to do so could result in even greater disruptions and further erode public trust in the organization’s ability to effectively manage the university admissions process.
The outcry from parents following the mock JAMB examinations serves as a wake-up call for JAMB to re-evaluate its operational procedures and address the underlying technical and logistical challenges. The organization must prioritize improving network reliability, streamlining communication with testing centers, and enhancing its overall organizational capacity. Furthermore, a broader discussion is needed regarding the role and relevance of JAMB in the context of university autonomy in admissions decisions. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring a fair and efficient admissions process for prospective university students.
