Background on JAMB and HND Graduates
Many HND graduates have encountered barriers to NYSC mobilisation due to irregularities in admission processes. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has been at the forefront of managing admissions for various educational programs in Nigeria, but its responsibilities do not extend to Higher National Diploma (HND) admissions.
Clarification from JAMB
In a recent statement, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB, emphasized that the board is not responsible for admitting HND students into polytechnics and, therefore, has no data to facilitate their entry into the NYSC scheme. He stated, “The Board is not responsible for admitting HND students into polytechnics and, therefore, has no data to facilitate their entry into the NYSC scheme.” This clarification comes amidst growing concerns among HND graduates regarding their eligibility for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
JAMB’s Mandate and Operations
Prof. Oloyede further explained that JAMB’s mandate is limited to first-degree, National Diploma, and Nigerian Certificate in Education programmes. The board conducts admissions through its automated Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), which automates the admissions process into tertiary institutions, addresses challenges associated with the manual approach, and empowers candidates with information on available institutions and programmes.
Recent Financial Developments
In terms of financial operations, JAMB remitted a total of N1.57 billion to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) centres for services rendered during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration. The registration for the UTME closed on February 26, 2026, without any extension, and candidates were not required to pay separate registration fees at CBT centres, as the ePIN includes the registration charge.
New Policies to Ensure Compliance
To enhance compliance and curb registration infractions, JAMB introduced the ‘No View, No Pay’ policy. Payments to CBT centres are withheld if registration activities cannot be monitored remotely by JAMB. This policy aims to ensure that all registration processes are transparent and accountable. As stated by an official, “Payment is only effected after the centre rectifies the anomaly and its activities can be viewed from the Board’s headquarters in Abuja.”
Looking Ahead
As the situation evolves, observers are keenly watching how JAMB will address the challenges faced by HND graduates in relation to NYSC mobilization. Prof. Oloyede has urged stakeholders to “Let’s do things properly,” indicating a commitment to improving the admissions process and ensuring that all candidates receive fair treatment.
While JAMB continues to play a pivotal role in the admissions landscape of Nigeria, the board’s limitations regarding HND admissions remain a significant concern for many graduates. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to these policies or the impact on HND graduates seeking NYSC mobilization.