The Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB) launched the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) on Friday in more than 700 centers nationwide after extensive preparations.
Despite some reported internet glitches, JAMB officials have reassured that all candidates will be treated fairly despite these minor challenges.
During an interview with reporters in Kogo-Bwari, Abuja, following his examination monitoring duties, the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyode, criticized certain companies and individuals for hastily awarding scholarships to what they deem as the highest performers. He expressed his disappointment, stating that this practice undermines the authority of the examination body.
Previously, there was controversy surrounding the 2023 examination when a student named Mmesoma claimed to be the top scorer and received a N3 million scholarship from Innocent Chukwuma, the Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing.
However, JAMB later refuted Mmesoma’s claim of being the top performer in the 2023 UTME, revealing that she falsified her results and even admitted to manipulating them using her phone.
Regarding this issue, Oloyede emphasized that JAMB does not support awarding scholarships to UTME top performers solely based on exam results, as this does not take into account other crucial admission criteria.
Discussing further, Oloyede pointed out that factors such as the quality of O Level results, Post-UTME scores, and other considerations like physical fitness assessments for certain institutions should be taken into account before labeling someone as the best performer.
Following the beginning of the 2024 UTME, Oloyede urged candidates who faced technical issues during the exam to remain patient as they would be rescheduled to take the test.
He mentioned that the UTME has been progressing smoothly with only one reported center experiencing difficulties so far.
Oloyede stressed the importance of understanding that technical glitches may occur in some centers due to varying levels of development across the country.
He also highlighted the process for rescheduling affected candidates, noting that disruptions during an exam session require contacting headquarters for appropriate arrangements.
JAMB had previously authorized CBT center owners to apprehend parents found near examination venues, alleging their involvement in aiding malpractice.