The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a warning to the public, particularly admission seekers, regarding the practice of institutional change of programmes. According to JAMB, this unethical practice is designed to manipulate the merit-based admission process, allowing institutions to favor certain candidates over others.
In a statement released by JAMB’s Spokesman, Fabian Benjamin, the Board emphasized that admission processes in Nigeria are conducted exclusively through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS). This platform ensures accountability, transparency, and equal opportunity in admission placements. Any change of programme or admission activity carried out outside of CAPS is unauthorized and detrimental to the affected candidates.
JAMB cautioned that if a candidate is influenced or persuaded by an institution to change programmes through its own portal, and the change is eventually effected on CAPS, it will be deemed a voluntary decision on the part of the candidate. The Board views such practices as deceptive and unfair to candidates, and will not condone them.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that some universities have been involved in this practice, including one in the South-West and another in Abuja. JAMB has initiated regulatory steps to address these unethical acts and protect candidates’ interests. Candidates are advised to disregard any invitations or requests to change programmes made through institutional portals or unofficial channels.
The Board reaffirms its commitment to ensuring fairness, equity, and transparency in the 2025 admission exercise and beyond. Candidates are urged to conduct all admission-related activities strictly through the JAMB CAPS portal. By doing so, they can ensure that their applications are processed in a transparent and merit-based manner.
The warning from JAMB highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the admission process. As the Board works to protect candidates’ interests, it is essential for admission seekers to remain vigilant and aware of the official channels for admission-related activities. By following the proper procedures, candidates can help ensure a fair and equitable admission process for all.