Quote from Alex bobby on March 1, 2024, 2:02 AM

The House of Representatives has directed the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reopen the registration portal for the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UMTE) for another two weeks.

This resolution was a sequel to a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hassan Shinkafi (PDP, Zamfara) on Thursday.

The UTME is a compulsory Computer-Based Test (CBT) taken by all candidates seeking admission into Nigerian public and private tertiary institutions.

Economic Hardship Persists: Representatives Urge JAMB to Extend UTME Registration Period

Introduction:

In the wake of ongoing economic challenges faced by numerous Nigerian families, the House of Representatives has recently appealed to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to consider reopening the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration portal for an additional two weeks. This plea comes as a response to the widespread economic hardship that has impacted many students' ability to register for the crucial examination.

The Economic Downturn:

Nigeria, like many other nations, has been grappling with economic difficulties that have been exacerbated by global events and internal factors. Rising inflation, unemployment rates, and a general increase in the cost of living have placed a heavy burden on families, particularly those with students preparing to take the UTME. These economic challenges have inadvertently hindered the timely registration of students for the examination, potentially limiting their access to higher education.

The Call for Extended Registration:

Recognizing the plight of students and their families, the House of Representatives has taken a proactive stance by urging JAMB to extend the registration period. The proposed two-week extension aims to provide relief to those who have been financially strained due to the economic downturn. This move aligns with the government's commitment to fostering inclusive education and ensuring that every aspiring student has a fair opportunity to pursue higher studies.

Impact on Students:

The economic fallout has left many households struggling to meet basic needs, let alone allocate funds for education-related expenses. The original UTME registration deadline created an added layer of stress for families already grappling with financial constraints. By reopening the registration portal, JAMB has the opportunity to ease the burden on these families, allowing students to pursue their academic ambitions without the undue pressure of economic hardship.

JAMB's Response:

As of now, JAMB has not officially responded to the request for an extension. However, the board has previously demonstrated a commitment to the welfare of students, considering various challenges faced during the pandemic. The decision to extend the registration period will likely involve a careful evaluation of logistical feasibility and the potential impact on the examination schedule.

Conclusion:

The economic hardship faced by many Nigerian families has underscored the need for flexibility and understanding in various sectors, including education. The House of Representatives' call for JAMB to reopen the UTME registration portal reflects a commitment to ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial constraints. As the nation navigates through these challenging times, collaborative efforts between the government and educational institutions become increasingly crucial to promoting equitable access to education and securing a brighter future for the next generation.