UTME 2025: JAMB proposes tough penalties for 11 CBT centres

Let’s face it — writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is already nerve-wracking. Now, imagine your exam centre being flagged for malpractice. That’s exactly what happened in the latest move by JAMB for UTME 2025. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is not holding back this year as it clamps down on 11 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres over serious irregularities.

Why This Update Matters

If you’re planning to sit for UTME 2025, this news should matter to you. Why? Because where you write your exam could affect your result, your future, and possibly your admission. JAMB’s actions are all about protecting the integrity of the examination system.

Background of the Allegation

According to JAMB, the affected CBT centres were found guilty of misconduct ranging from aiding impersonation to technical manipulation of exam software. The board’s investigations, carried out post-UTME 2024, revealed shocking practices that threatened the reliability of test outcomes.

JAMB’s Tough Stance Against Malpractice

The penalties being proposed are no joke. Some centres may face:

List of the Affected CBT Centres

Although JAMB has yet to publish the full list publicly, they confirmed that all affected centres will be made known on the official JAMB website. This helps future candidates avoid registering at compromised locations.

Types of Irregularities Uncovered

Let’s talk about what these centres did wrong:

Impersonation: Allowing someone else to write for the real candidate
Technical Manipulation: Disabling timers or altering computer configurations
Unauthorized Assistance: Giving hints, allowing textbooks, or offering aid during the exam

JAMB’s Official Statement

The JAMB Registrar emphasized that the board “will not compromise on standards” and “will continue to identify and punish any form of compromise in CBT administration.”

Reaction from Stakeholders

Parents are relieved that JAMB is taking action. However, many students are anxious — especially those who registered at the listed centres. Advocacy groups have called for better monitoring and student protection.

Implications for UTME 2025 Candidates

If your centre is blocked, JAMB will reassign you. But be prepared — you might face longer travel distances or schedule changes. Also, keep an eye on your profile dashboard for updates.

How to Identify Accredited CBT Centres

Want to be safe? Always use the official JAMB list of accredited CBT centres before registering.

Preventive Measures for Future UTME Exams

JAMB is stepping up their game. With AI-driven surveillance, biometrics, and encrypted servers, exam malpractice is becoming harder — and riskier.

CBT Centres: Expectations and Accountability

Every accredited CBT centre is expected to:

Operate under full video surveillance
Submit biometric data logs
Cooperate with on-site JAMB monitors

Legal and Financial Repercussions

Centre owners found guilty may not only lose licenses but also face prosecution under the Cybercrimes Act and JAMB Act.

Public Awareness and Media Coverage

News outlets like Premium Times, Vanguard, and The Guardian Nigeria have all reported the development, calling for deeper reforms.

The Bigger Picture: Education Reform in Nigeria

The crackdown is a part of broader efforts to sanitize Nigeria’s education sector. If exam malpractice isn’t curbed, the country risks producing incompetent graduates who can’t compete globally.

Advice to 2025 UTME Candidates

Double-check your centre
Report any suspicious activities
Arrive early and follow all procedures

The Role of Technology in Exam Integrity

Technology is at the core of modern UTME exams. JAMB now leverages AI tools to monitor behaviors during live sessions. These tools can detect abnormal activities like frequent eye movement, multiple faces in a frame, or off-screen glances. Not only that, but server-side encryption prevents remote access or data breaches.

Case Studies from Previous Years

In 2023, a centre in Lagos was caught using a local software patch that disabled timers and tracking mechanisms. JAMB immediately revoked its license. Another case in 2024 involved staff members sharing exam questions via WhatsApp. These real incidents have informed the stricter measures in 2025.

JAMB’s Partnership with Security Agencies

To make its fight against malpractice more effective, JAMB collaborates with agencies like the EFCC, NSCDC, and Nigeria Police Force. These bodies offer surveillance, forensic audit support, and arrest powers for perpetrators. This partnership sends a clear message that examination malpractice is now a legal matter, not just an academic one.

Community Involvement and Whistleblower Policy

JAMB has created platforms where candidates, parents, or staff can anonymously report malpractice through its eFacility portal. The board is also introducing incentives for whistleblowers, ranging from certificates of recognition to monetary rewards in severe cases.

Conclusion

UTME 2025 marks a significant step in Nigeria’s journey toward a credible education system. With JAMB implementing stricter controls, leveraging tech, and partnering with legal forces, students can expect a fairer process. Candidates must now play their part by staying informed, reporting shady practices, and preparing adequately. The future of Nigerian education depends on integrity at every level.

FAQs

1. How does JAMB use technology to monitor CBT exams?
JAMB uses AI-driven software and live camera feeds to detect unusual behaviors and anomalies during exams.

2. Has JAMB blocked CBT centres in the past?
Yes. JAMB has blocked over 50 centres in the last 5 years due to malpractice.

3. Are candidates punished if their centre is involved in malpractice?
Not directly. Affected candidates are reassigned or rescheduled. However, intentional collaboration may lead to disqualification.

4. How can I report malpractice anonymously?
Use JAMB’s whistleblower portal on the eFacility platform.

5. Will this affect admissions into universities?
JAMB is working to ensure fair rescheduling so admissions are not delayed. Keep checking official channels for updates.

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