The Federal Government has announced that only about 20% of candidates participating in the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are expected to secure admission into the country’s higher education institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The disclosure was made by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during his visit to observe the ongoing UTME process alongside JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
During the visit, Prof. Mamman shared insights into the challenges of managing the high demand for tertiary education in Nigeria. He noted that while many candidates aspire to enter tertiary institutions, the reality is that only a fraction can be accommodated annually due to limited capacity. This shortfall necessitates the need for alternative pathways, such as vocational training and skills acquisition, which are crucial for preparing the youth for future opportunities.
Prof. Mamman emphasized the importance of skills development from an early age, suggesting that even students who do not proceed beyond primary or junior secondary education can benefit from acquiring practical skills that would help them lead productive lives and contribute to society.
Furthermore, the Minister expressed concerns about the young age of many university applicants. The government is considering a revision of the entry age for tertiary institutions, potentially setting the minimum age at 18 to ensure students are adequately mature to handle the responsibilities and independence of university life. This adjustment aims to address the behavioral and academic challenges that younger students might face in a university setting.
The Minister praised JAMB for the smooth conduct of the examinations, attributing the success to the adoption of advanced technology which has significantly reduced incidents of malpractice. He noted that the technological tools used during the UTME have ensured a comfortable and efficient environment for the candidates.
Dr. Tanko Sununu, Minister of State for Education, also commented on the global reach of the UTME, highlighting that the examination was being conducted seamlessly even outside Nigeria, including in Saudi Arabia. This expansion underscores JAMB's commitment to maintaining high standards of objectivity and reliability in the examination process.
In conclusion, while the number of candidates able to secure admission remains limited, the emphasis on skills training and the planned review of admission age requirements reflect the government’s broader educational strategy to equip young Nigerians with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly competitive world.
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