The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Examination Bodies, led by Chairman Oboku Oforji, conducted an oversight exercise to monitor the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in various centers within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The committee’s primary objective was to assess the conduct of the UTME and identify any challenges hindering its smooth operation. Oforji expressed the committee’s commitment to supporting the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in addressing these challenges and ensuring the successful administration of the examination, recognizing the UTME’s crucial role as a pathway for Nigerian youth towards higher education. He lauded JAMB’s efforts and expressed optimism about the future of the country, based on the determination displayed by the candidates.
Despite commending JAMB’s overall management of the UTME, the committee observed several infrastructural and logistical shortcomings at some examination centers. A key concern was the lack of essential amenities like air conditioning and adequate ventilation in certain halls, leading to discomfort for the candidates. The committee also noted the absence of medical personnel and insufficient first aid facilities, especially in centers accommodating a large number of candidates. These deficiencies raised concerns about the well-being and safety of the students during the examination.
Beyond the infrastructural issues, the committee also addressed complaints received from candidates regarding multiple payments and registration glitches. Some candidates reported having to pay multiple times due to technical errors during the registration process. These issues, coupled with the observed infrastructural deficiencies, highlighted areas requiring immediate attention to enhance the overall examination experience for future UTME candidates. The committee chairman assured that these concerns would be discussed in detail at an upcoming stakeholders’ meeting with JAMB’s leadership.
The committee’s oversight visit revealed a contrasting picture of both challenges and resilience. While acknowledging the shortcomings in some examination centers, the committee was impressed by the candidates’ determination and perseverance despite the less-than-ideal conditions. The students demonstrated a strong commitment to their academic pursuits, undeterred by the uncomfortable environment. This resilience, according to Oforji, offered a beacon of hope for the nation’s future, particularly in the face of existing national challenges.
The oversight exercise underscored the importance of collaboration between the legislative and examination bodies to ensure a smooth and efficient UTME process. The committee’s findings provided valuable insights into areas needing improvement, ranging from infrastructural upgrades to addressing technical glitches in the registration process. By working together, the committee and JAMB can strive to create a more conducive and equitable examination environment for all aspiring tertiary students.
The committee’s proactive approach in identifying and addressing these challenges demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the integrity and accessibility of the UTME. By highlighting both the positive aspects, such as the candidates’ resilience, and the areas needing improvement, such as inadequate facilities and registration issues, the committee paved the way for constructive dialogue and collaborative solutions. This collaborative effort is crucial for ensuring that the UTME effectively serves its purpose as a gateway to higher education for Nigerian youth, providing them with a fair and equitable opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations.
