JAMB unveils automated UTME question system, exposes nationwide malpractice network
By Uji A Iliyasu, Abuja
The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is’haq Oloyede, has announced the exposure of a widespread examination malpractice network operating across the country, revealing that some of the culprits include compromised officials within the Board.
Oloyede made this known on Friday at JAMB’s headquarters in Bwari, FCT, during the unveiling of an automated system for the development and moderation of questions for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The registrar said the breakthrough was achieved through the Board’s deployment of advanced technology, data-driven monitoring mechanisms and strengthened collaboration with security agencies.
He said the reforms have uncovered sharp practices involving certain candidates, school proprietors, operators of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres and a few errant staff members who attempted to undermine the integrity of the examination process.
“Our systems have revealed those who attempt to sabotage the integrity of the examination process, including some internal collaborators. We are taking decisive steps to deal with them in accordance with the law,” he said.
He noted that the cases discovered cut across several states of the federation, describing the development as clear evidence that the Board’s ongoing reforms were yielding tangible results.
Oloyede disclosed that some of the indicted individuals and centres had already been handed over to relevant security agencies for investigation and prosecution, while internal disciplinary procedures had commenced against implicated staff.
He added that the Board would not hesitate to blacklist any centre or individual found guilty of engaging in malpractice, stressing that the era of impunity in the conduct of public examinations was over.
The JAMB boss explained that the newly introduced automated item generation and moderation system was designed to further safeguard the examination process by eliminating human interference, enhancing confidentiality and blocking loopholes previously exploited by fraudsters.
“What we are witnessing today is a further step towards protecting the sanctity of our examination and ensuring that our candidates are assessed under the most credible conditions,” he stated.
He described the innovation as part of JAMB’s broader transformation agenda aimed at aligning its operations with global best practices and promoting transparency, accountability and fairness.
The registrar also used the occasion to debunk reports alleging an increase in JAMB registration fees, insisting that the Board’s charges remain as previously approved and warning the public against being misled by false information.
While reaffirming the Board’s commitment to a merit-driven admission process, Oloyede assured candidates that every applicant would continue to enjoy equal opportunity.
“We are not unaware of the challenges in the education sector, but we remain resolute in our determination to ensure that the products of our system are globally competitive,” he said.
He commended the Federal Government for its consistent support, as well as JAMB staff and technical partners for their roles in the successful implementation of the new system.
The registrar also acknowledged the contribution of security agencies and the media in exposing malpractice and disseminating accurate information to the public.
Stakeholders at the event described the automated system as a landmark achievement that would significantly enhance the credibility of the UTME and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s admission process.
Education analysts believe that the exposure of malpractice syndicates, especially those involving insiders, sends a strong signal that the Board is prepared to confront corruption within and outside its ranks.
They noted that the combination of technology, institutional reforms and law enforcement collaboration could mark a turning point in the fight against examination fraud in the country.
Oloyede, however, maintained that the success of the reforms would depend on sustained support from all stakeholders, urging institutions, parents and candidates to embrace integrity and resist the temptation of seeking fraudulent advantage.
“As a nation, we must collectively reject malpractice in all its forms. The future of our education system depends on it,” he said.
With the launch of the automated question development system and the ongoing crackdown on fraud, JAMB says it is poised to consolidate its reforms and further sanitise the conduct of the UTME.