The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is contemplating a new policy that would enable candidates taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to use their personal phones and other devices during the exams. This information was revealed by the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, during the 2023 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.
The proposed policy is a response to the increasing logistical costs associated with conducting the UTME nationwide. Prof. Oloyede explained that equipping a Computer Based Test (CBT) center in Kaduna state alone requires over N1.2 billion, primarily due to the procurement of computers for candidates to use during the examination.
Under the potential new policy, known as "Bring Your Own Device," candidates would be required to bring their own devices to the examination hall for future UTME sessions. This move aims to reduce the burden on JAMB in terms of providing testing equipment.
During the policy meeting, the registrar expressed concern about the overwhelming preference for university education among candidates, often neglecting polytechnics and colleges of education. He also criticized the significant disparities in admission quotas across the country. Aspiring candidates were encouraged to explore alternative options within the tertiary education sector to secure admission.
These developments signal a potential shift in the way UTME examinations are conducted, as JAMB explores innovative solutions to address logistical challenges and improve efficiency.
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