The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) plans to extend the registration deadline for students who are applying for direct entry into Nigerian universities. The deadline had previously been set for May 13th, but the ongoing queue and commotion experienced notably in Lagos led to the decision. A highly placed JAMB official who spoke on the condition of anonymity confirmed the extension.
The management of the examination body had convened and decided that every qualified and willing applicant is duly registered. The period of the extension is expected to be for one week, but if the crisis persists and everyone willing to register has not been successfully processed, the examination body may consider a further extension.
JAMB recently instructed direct entry applicants to register at its offices, having restricted privately-owned computer-based test centres from participating for curbing the use of counterfeit A-level documents for registration. JAMB said the centralization of the application process was to prevent fraudulent practices and set a template for private CBT centre participation in forthcoming years.
The decision, however, has left many applicants stranded, especially within the Lagos State office, who have been seen sleeping on the floor because of the rowdiness.
The extension has been confirmed to be for one week. However, JAMB is reluctant to make an official announcement to avoid candidates relaxing again and then waiting for the last minute rush. The examination body assures everyone that is willing to buy their PIN will be allowed to register for the direct entry programme. The examination board insists that it is a responsible organisation valuing its integrity and the dignity of each student.
JAMB disclosed, at different times, acceptable qualifications for the direct entry registration process. The acceptable qualifications listed are Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), Ordinary National Diploma (OND), Joint Universities Preliminary Examination Board (JUPED), Higher Islamic Studies Certificate by NBAIS, Higher National Diploma (HND) and university degrees, and others.
The examination board has been revealed to be achieving the desired result as these precautions would prevent fraudulent practices in the application process and later on when candidates are screened for admission at higher institutions.
