2024 UTME: 260,000 Sat for Mock Exam, Says JAMB Registrar Oloyede

In a significant stride towards the preparation for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) conducted a seamless Mock UTME on Thursday, March 7, with a staggering 260,000 candidates participating across 793 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide. Prof Is-haq Oloyede, the Registrar/Chief Executive of JAMB, expressed satisfaction with the exercise, emphasizing its role in gauging the board’s readiness for the upcoming main UTME scheduled to commence on Friday, April 19, 2024.

The Mock UTME served as a crucial test of JAMB’s systems and processes, and Oloyede commended the flawless conduct of the exam, showcasing the board’s commitment to providing a smooth examination experience for candidates. The registrar, who personally monitored the mock exam in various centres in Abuja, stated that the few incidents recorded in approximately four centres would be promptly addressed, assuring the public that every challenge would be resolved.

Highlighting the comprehensive nature of JAMB’s recent activities, Oloyede revealed that the board had successfully conducted recruitment examinations for the Nigeria Police on Wednesday. Despite encountering minor issues in a handful of centres during the Mock UTME, Oloyede affirmed that the board was well-prepared for the main UTME, with new mechanisms in place to fortify the examination system.

The registrar shared statistical insights into the registration and participation numbers, stating that out of the 1.98 million candidates registered for the main 2024 UTME, over 260,000 actively engaged in the mock exam. Oloyede clarified that limiting the mock exam participants was a deliberate decision to ensure that it served its intended purpose of testing the system rather than becoming an additional examination for candidates.

In an update on the release of results, Oloyede announced that the Mock-UTME results would be made available either on Thursday evening or Friday, providing timely feedback to candidates. The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) consultant at JAMB, Damilola Bamiro, emphasized the board’s proactive approach to addressing any issues during the examination through the use of JAMB’s Situation Room, facilitating real-time interaction between exam centres and the board.

As JAMB continues its commitment to conducting fair and transparent examinations, the successful Mock UTME sets a positive tone for the upcoming main UTME, instilling confidence in both candidates and stakeholders. The registrar’s assurance of resolving any challenges reinforces the board’s dedication to delivering a credible and efficient examination process for the multitude of students seeking higher education opportunities in Nigeria.