We’re Largest ICT User for Exam Globally — JAMB

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has declared itself the largest user of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for the conduct of examinations globally. This statement was made by the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, on Tuesday during this year’s International Week organized by the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, in partnership with several foreign universities.

Prof. Oloyede made this declaration while serving as a panellist alongside the Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Dr. Chris Maiyaki; the Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Mr. Sonny Echono, represented by the ICT Director of the fund, Mr. Joseph Odoh; and the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola. Other notable figures on the panel included Prof. Leila Mathieu, First Secretary of the European Union Commission in Nigeria; Prof. Emase Okonedo, Vice-Chancellor of Pan Atlantic University, Lagos; and Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu.

Prof. Oloyede emphasized that no other examination body globally, including those in the US and the UK, has been able to register and conduct online examinations for nearly two million candidates simultaneously. He highlighted JAMB’s capability to communicate directly and efficiently with candidates via online platforms, a feat unmatched by its international counterparts.

He further noted that JAMB has made significant strides in accommodating candidates with special needs, including the visually impaired and albinos. These initiatives, according to him, have ensured that JAMB examinations remain inclusive, credible, equitable, and cost-effective.

While discussing the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on global education systems, Prof. Oloyede stated that AI can only be credible and relevant when guided by people with natural intelligence. He added that achieving inclusive digital transformation in higher education remains a significant priority worldwide.

In his contribution, Dr. Chris Maiyaki, the Acting Executive Secretary of NUC, underscored the importance of embracing the fast-evolving digital age. However, he expressed concerns about Nigeria’s higher education system being at a crossroads in achieving inclusive digital transformation. He emphasized that this transformation should focus on reimagining education and creating systems that leave no one behind.

Dr. Maiyaki commended UNILAG for its efforts in positioning the institution on the global academic map, aligning with the NUC’s vision of transforming Nigerian universities into dynamic centers of innovation and knowledge dissemination.

The Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, highlighted the significance of the annual International Week, noting that the programme aims to build faculty capacity and foster global collaboration in the digital world. She shared that the initiative has already impacted over 500 students across two departments, enhancing employment opportunities, skills development, and urbanization.

In a goodwill message, the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, His Excellency Juan Ignacio Sell, expressed Spain’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Nigeria and UNILAG. He announced plans for UNILAG to offer Spanish as a course, alongside initiatives to empower women in science and technology fields.

Additionally, Prof. Leila Mathieu, First Secretary of the European Union Commission in Nigeria, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting African universities through grants, peer-reviewed research collaborations, and scholarships aimed at improving innovation ecosystems across institutions.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Sule Tolani; Prof. Bobby Moroe, Consul-General, South Africa Consulate, Lagos; Will Stevens, US Consul-General in Lagos; Prof. Clement Kolawole, Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Lagos; and Prof. Ismail Ibraheem, Director of International Relations, Partnership and Prospects at UNILAG.

Other notable attendees included Prof. Jo Angouri, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor, University of Warwick, England, and Prof. Jari Porras from SE4DG LUT University, Finland.

The conference underscored the critical role of ICT in shaping modern education systems and highlighted JAMB’s exceptional use of digital technologies to revolutionize the conduct of examinations in Nigeria and beyond.