JAMB may allow candidates write UTME with phones, personal device

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) says it is contemplating a new policy to allow the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) candidates to write the examinations with their personal phones and other devices.

The JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, said this at the 2023 policy meeting on admissions to tertiary institutions in Abuja on Saturday, June 24.

Oloyede said the proposed policy was based on the rising cost of logistics in taking the UTME nationwide.

According to him, it cost the JAMB over N1.2 billion to equip a Computer Based Test (CBT) centre in Kaduna State, particularly in procuring computers which candidates use to take the examination.

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The JAMB boss said the policy which falls under the ‘Bring Your Own Device’ may require candidates wishing to take UTME in the future to bring their own devices to the examination hall.

He said: “On the way forward, we are looking at BOYD – the direction for JAMB students to bring their telephones. It lowers capital investment but is not helpful for digital literacy.

“There will be the establishment of a mobile examinational malpractice tribunal to deal with the criminal aspect while institutions handle the misconduct.

“We will be partnering with security operatives and relevant agencies on cyber crimes; engaging the machinery and sponsoring them to tap from their knowledge of candidates. Movement of some services to the registration portal to prevent extortion Open Book Examination to Discourage Cheating.

“Political will and concerted efforts at adopting a single identity for all with NIMC citizens to discourage impersonation.”

Oloyede further expressed concern over the craving for university education among candidates at the detriment of polytechnics and colleges of education.

While condemning the wide disparity in admission quotas in the country, he advised aspiring candidates to explore other options within the tertiary education sector for admission.

The Star