Reps Urge JAMB to Extend UTME Registration by Two Weeks Amid Economic Challenges

In response to the economic challenges faced by many families in Nigeria, the House of Representatives has called on the Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB) to extend the registration period for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) by two weeks.

The resolution was reached during a plenary session on Thursday, following a motion moved by Bello Shinkafi. The House also assigned the relevant Committee on Education and Legislative Compliance to ensure strict adherence to the extension.

JAMB, a statutory body established by law, is responsible for registering and conducting UTME to facilitate the admission of candidates into tertiary institutions across the country. The 2024 UTME, which began on January 15, was initially scheduled to conclude on February 26.

Shinkafi highlighted the prevailing economic hardships faced by many families, preventing them from registering their wards within the stipulated timeline. He emphasized the need for an extension, expressing concern that without it, numerous candidates would be unable to participate in the examination, resulting in limited coverage and participation in this year’s UTME.

The lawmaker noted, “We are all aware of the painful economic situation prevailing in the country. As a result, many families have been constrained from registering their wards, by this timeline.”

Shinkafi’s motion stressed that a two-week extension would not only provide relief to families but also encourage widespread participation in the UTME, thereby ensuring a fair and inclusive examination process.

In response to the motion, the House resolved, “House to mandate the JAMB to extend the registration for two weeks to enable the anticipated potential candidates to register for the 2024 UTME.”

The decision to extend the registration period aims to alleviate the economic burden on families and promote equal opportunities for all eligible candidates to participate in the UTME, reinforcing confidence in the administration’s commitment to education in Nigeria.