The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), the body responsible for conducting entrance examinations for tertiary institutions in Nigeria, has issued a stern advisory to parents against making unsubstantiated accusations of unfair admission practices against universities. This call followed a surge in complaints from parents alleging unjust denial of admission to their children, often without a full understanding of the admission criteria and procedures. JAMB emphasized the importance of verifying the facts before leveling accusations, highlighting several cases where parental claims were proven unfounded upon investigation.
One such case involved a parent who publicly accused the University of Calabar of denying his son admission despite a UTME score of 201. JAMB’s investigation revealed that the candidate’s aggregate score, which considers other factors beyond the UTME score, was 34%, significantly below the university’s minimum admission cut-off percentages of 55% for merit, 35% for catchment area, and 35% for Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS). This case underscores the need for parents to understand the comprehensive admission requirements, which often extend beyond the UTME score.
Another instance involved a high-ranking public official who alleged admission irregularities at Modibbo Adama University, Yola. JAMB’s subsequent investigation, however, found no evidence to support the claims, demonstrating the potential for misinformation and the importance of due diligence before making public accusations. These instances of unfounded allegations not only damage the reputation of the universities but also create unnecessary tension and distrust within the education system.
A third case involved a parent who challenged the University of Jos for allegedly denying his son admission despite a UTME score of 345. Upon inviting the parent and child to JAMB headquarters, the Board demonstrated the ranking process, revealing that the candidate ranked 86th while only 68 slots were available based on merit. This case highlights the competitive nature of university admissions, where even high UTME scores may not guarantee admission due to limited spaces and the relative performance of other candidates. The father subsequently apologized, acknowledging his misunderstanding of the admission process.
JAMB further addressed the misuse of the “exceptionally brilliant window,” a special provision for candidates under 16 years old. The Board expressed concern over the unusually high number of candidates registered under this category, a stark contrast to global standards where only a small percentage of applicants qualify for such provisions. This suggests potential manipulation of the system, undermining its intended purpose of supporting exceptionally gifted young individuals.
The Board reiterated its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent admission process, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat fraudulent practices. JAMB revealed that a senior university official is currently facing prosecution for admission fraud, with investigations underway against four others. This underscores the Board’s seriousness in upholding the integrity of the admission system and holding those who engage in malpractice accountable.
JAMB’s advisory emphasizes the importance of parental understanding of the admission process, urging them to refrain from hasty conclusions and unsubstantiated accusations. The Board stressed that the UTME serves primarily as a ranking examination, positioning candidates within a cohort based on their performance relative to others vying for limited spaces in tertiary institutions. This ranking, coupled with other criteria set by individual universities, determines admission eligibility, a process that must be understood by all stakeholders to avoid misunderstandings and unwarranted allegations.
The Board’s call for informed engagement is crucial for maintaining trust and transparency in the Nigerian education system. By understanding the complexities of the admission process, parents can play a constructive role in supporting their children’s educational aspirations without resorting to baseless accusations that can undermine the integrity of institutions and the admission process itself. JAMB’s commitment to fairness and accountability, coupled with parental understanding and responsible engagement, are essential for ensuring a credible and equitable admission system for all aspiring tertiary students.
JAMB’s proactive approach in addressing these issues and its commitment to transparency are crucial steps in strengthening the integrity of the Nigerian education system. By highlighting these cases and providing clear explanations, the Board aims to educate parents and the public on the complexities of the admission process, fostering a more informed and collaborative approach to university admissions. This proactive communication is essential for managing expectations and preventing unnecessary conflict, allowing for a smoother and more equitable admission cycle.
The Board’s emphasis on the UTME as a ranking examination underscores the competitive landscape of tertiary education in Nigeria. With a large number of applicants vying for limited spaces, even high UTME scores may not guarantee admission. This reality necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the admission criteria, which vary across institutions and often include factors beyond the UTME score, such as O’Level grades, post-UTME screenings, and specific subject requirements.
JAMB’s ongoing efforts to combat admission fraud, including the prosecution of university officials involved in malpractice, demonstrate the Board’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the admission process. By holding perpetrators accountable, JAMB sends a clear message that fraudulent practices will not be tolerated, fostering greater trust and fairness within the system. This vigilance is critical for ensuring that admission decisions are based on merit and not influenced by corrupt practices.
The advisory serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility in ensuring a fair and transparent admission system. While JAMB plays a crucial role in conducting the UTME and regulating the admission process, parents and other stakeholders also have a responsibility to understand the system and engage constructively. By working together, based on accurate information and mutual respect, the Nigerian education system can better serve the aspirations of its students and contribute to the nation’s development.
The call for parental understanding and responsible engagement reinforces the importance of collaboration between JAMB, universities, parents, and students in navigating the complexities of the admission process. By fostering open communication and addressing concerns based on facts rather than assumptions, the system can become more efficient and equitable, ensuring that deserving candidates gain access to tertiary education opportunities. This collaborative approach is essential for building a robust and transparent admission system that serves the best interests of all stakeholders.
In conclusion, JAMB’s advisory serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of informed engagement and responsible communication within the Nigerian education system. By understanding the admission process, refraining from unsubstantiated allegations, and working collaboratively, parents, students, and institutions can contribute to a fairer and more efficient admission system that fosters trust and promotes access to quality tertiary education for all deserving candidates. JAMB’s commitment to transparency and accountability, coupled with the collective responsibility of all stakeholders, is key to strengthening the integrity of the Nigerian education system and ensuring a brighter future for its students.
