The stage is set for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria, a crucial assessment for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions. Scheduled to run from April 25 to May 5, 2026, the examination comes at a time when the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has been implementing significant reforms to enhance the integrity of the examination process.

In the lead-up to the examination, JAMB reported that over 2.2 million candidates successfully registered for the UTME, indicating a strong interest in higher education among Nigerian youth. However, the examination process is not without its challenges. During the registration phase, it was discovered that over 150 accredited Computer-Based Testing (CBT) centres were not visible on JAMB’s central monitoring system, raising concerns about potential malpractice.

To address these issues, JAMB has emphasized the importance of real-time monitoring. All 989 accredited centres have been directed to ensure that their surveillance cameras are fully accessible from JAMB’s control room. This move is part of a broader strategy to curb examination malpractice, which has plagued the educational system in Nigeria for years.

The optional Mock-UTME is set to take place on March 28, 2026, providing candidates with a chance to familiarize themselves with the examination format. JAMB’s registrar has stated that since 2017, there have been no reported problems with the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS), which is designed to ensure transparency in the admissions process.

In light of recent security concerns in Plateau State, JAMB has called for urgent intervention from government authorities and security agencies to ensure the safety of students during the examination period. Sadiq Mesalati, a prominent figure in the education sector, emphasized that “no student should have to choose between education and personal safety. The right to education must include safe access to examination centres.”

Moreover, JAMB has encouraged parents and candidates to voice their concerns if they believe they have been unjustly denied admission despite having satisfactory UTME scores. Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the JAMB registrar, stated, “If you find anybody, if you are sure of yourself, you have a score, and this is the UTME score of my child, and you know that you ought to be admitted and you are not admitted, protest to us because CAPS has made everything easy.” This statement underscores the board’s commitment to ensuring fairness in the admissions process.

As the examination dates approach, the focus remains on maintaining the integrity of the UTME while ensuring the safety of all participants. JAMB’s reforms, including strengthened verification processes for direct entry candidates to prevent forgery, are critical in this regard. The board has made it clear that any accredited centres not visible on its monitoring system risk strict sanctions, reinforcing the seriousness of these measures.

In conclusion, the upcoming UTME represents not only a significant milestone for millions of candidates but also a pivotal moment for JAMB as it strives to restore confidence in the examination process. As preparations continue, the emphasis on safety, transparency, and integrity will be vital in shaping the future of education in Nigeria.

Сообщение Unified tertiary matriculation examination: What is the and How Will It Proceed in 2026? появились сначала на naijanewsreporters.