The JAMB Debacle and the Path Forward

By Obisike Felix Ndubuisi

The recent Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination fiasco has sparked widespread concern and outrage, raising fundamental questions about the integrity and reliability of our national examination bodies. On May 14, JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Oloyede, took full responsibility for the examination’s technical issues, citing glitches as the primary cause. While JAMB has announced plans to reschedule the examination for affected candidates, the issue runs deeper than just rescheduling. The gravity of the situation demands a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to address the systemic problems that led to this debacle.

The immediate aftermath of the examination’s release saw widespread ridicule and mockery of the candidates, with many being labeled as part of the “Gen Z” or “internet generation.” The media was awash with memes and jokes about the candidates’ performance, with little attention paid to the root cause of the problem. Few took the time to investigate the underlying issues that led to the mass failure, which lies squarely with the examination body. The culpability of JAMB in this matter cannot be overstated, and it is imperative that the board takes concrete steps to rectify the situation.

Surprisingly, the Minister of Education commended JAMB, attributing the mass failure to the board’s efforts in curbing examination malpractices. While the fight against examination malpractices is a noble cause, it is unconscionable that the Minister would use this incident to praise JAMB without acknowledging the board’s obvious failures. This incident has raised several concerns, particularly in light of previous statements by the Minister of Education about transitioning to a fully computer-based testing (CBT) system for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) by 2026.

The plan to shift from traditional paper-and-pencil exams to CBT raises questions about the feasibility of conducting examinations with practical components, such as science subjects, in a CBT format. Given Nigeria’s existing challenges with network infrastructure and technical issues, it is doubtful whether the country is adequately prepared to handle such a transition. The lack of infrastructure, technical expertise, and robust backup systems would likely exacerbate the existing problems, putting students’ academic futures at risk.

Moreover, the decision to use CBT centers for WAEC examinations from 2026, rather than schools, raises further concerns about logistics and accessibility. How will WAEC ensure that these centers are equipped to handle the influx of candidates, and what measures will be put in place to prevent technical issues and other logistical challenges? The absence of a clear plan to address these concerns is alarming and raises questions about the examination body’s preparedness for this transition.

Regarding the JAMB issue, it is concerning that the board did not consider the implications for candidates who are still in school, particularly those writing the ongoing WAEC examinations. The decision to invite candidates for a resit examination without adequate consideration for their current academic schedules and circumstances is questionable. What measures has JAMB put in place to ensure a smooth and hitch-free examination process this time around? How will the board accommodate candidates who are still in boarding schools or those who wrote the examination in different states? The lack of consideration for these candidates’ circumstances is a clear indication of JAMB’s lack of preparedness.

The bravery of parents who stood their ground and insisted on seeking justice for their children is commendable. Their efforts led to JAMB acknowledging its failures and taking steps to rectify the situation. However, it is disheartening to see many parents who may not be as vocal or empowered to advocate for their children. The disparity in parental advocacy highlights the need for a more inclusive and supportive system that protects the rights of all students, regardless of their background or socio-economic status.

In conclusion, while Prof. Oloyede’s acceptance of responsibility is a step in the right direction, it remains to be seen whether JAMB will take concrete steps to address the underlying issues. A roundtable discussion involving all critical stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and students, is essential to finding lasting solutions to these recurring problems. Only through a collaborative effort can we ensure that our examination bodies are equipped to provide a fair and reliable assessment of our students’ abilities. The future of our education system depends on it.

Obisike Felix Ndubuisi
Information officer
from Nsulu Airport