The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced new directives aimed at curbing examination malpractice during the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). These measures, announced during a virtual briefing of Computer-Based Test (CBT) center owners on Wednesday, 17th April 2024, aim to prevent disruptions and potential cheating.
Key directives include:
– Arrest of Parents Near Exam Centers: JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, stated that parents found near CBT centers during exams will be arrested. These measures are intended to deter facilitators of examination infractions and to maintain exam integrity.
– Disqualification of Wards: If a parent disobeys JAMB’s order and is found near an exam center, their child or ward will be disqualified from taking the exam. This serves as a deterrent to parents who may attempt to interfere with the examination process.
– Focus on Underage Candidates: JAMB emphasized the importance of adhering to the minimum age requirement of 17 for exam candidates. Parents who try to circumvent this rule by accompanying underage children to exam centers will face sanctions.
– Warning Against Scam Websites: JAMB advises candidates to safeguard their personal information and avoid sharing details with fraudulent websites. Candidates found to have shared information with such sites will be treated as accomplices and prosecuted.
– Technical Glitch Contingency Plan: JAMB has contingency plans in place to address any technical issues that may arise during the examination. Affected sessions will be rescheduled to later in the day or the following day.
– Expectations of Center Owners: JAMB urges exam center owners to prioritize the integrity of the exam over profit motives. The board will take action against centers involved in fraudulent activities.
– Technology to Combat Malpractice: JAMB is deploying advanced technologies to detect and prevent cheating, collusion, and other violations of exam regulations.
JAMB’s efforts to enhance exam integrity reflect a commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring fairness for all candidates.
