Below is the JAMB Latest News for Today Tuesday 8th October 2024
No Candidates Under 18 for JAMB Starting 2025
The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, announced that from 2025, candidates below 18 years will no longer be allowed to sit for the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. This decision aligns with the country’s education policy, which states that the minimum age for admission is 18.
During an interview, Mamman clarified that this is not a new policy but a reinforcement of existing rules. He stated that this year’s JAMB will still admit candidates under 18, serving as a notice for parents about the upcoming changes.
Stricter Regulations for National Examinations
In addition to the JAMB changes, Mamman mentioned that students must have spent a minimum of 17 and a half years in school before being eligible to write national examinations, including the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the West African Examination Council (WAEC). This regulation aims to ensure that candidates have completed the required number of years at each educational level.
Addressing Exceptional Cases
While the policy is strict, there may still be opportunities for exceptionally gifted students. Mamman acknowledged the need to consider bright students who might be ready for advanced studies earlier than their peers. However, he emphasized that any adjustments must be carefully managed to prevent exploitation.
New Developments at JAMB
In related news, JAMB is implementing measures to reduce physical interactions with candidates to combat extortion. Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede announced plans for complete automation of services, which aims to protect underage candidates from potential exploitation.
Admission Cut-Off Marks for Universities
Regarding university admissions, some institutions have set their own cut-off marks above the JAMB benchmark of 140. For example, Kogi State University has established a minimum of 170, emphasizing that lowering this score would undermine the university’s academic standards.
JAMB also clarified that renowned universities such as the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) have set their cut-off marks at 200. Institutions are expected to adhere to their self-prescribed benchmark, with no admissions permitted below these standards.
Conclusion
These recent announcements reflect a significant shift in Nigeria’s education system, focusing on ensuring that candidates meet the necessary age and academic requirements for examination and university admission. As these policies come into effect, stakeholders in education are encouraged to remain informed and adapt to these changes.
Thanks for the update but a candidate of 17years old can’t seat for the exam right, well but can a 17years old candidate who wrote the 2024 exam, can they still enter the school of their choice??
Yes, they can still get admission.
can a candidate of 17 years seat for the exam next year