Education Minister Attributes Record UTME Failures to Crackdown on Exam Malpractice, Announces Plans to Modernize WAEC and NECO with CBT
Nigeria’s Education System Faces Scrutiny Amid Record UTME Failures
The 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results have sparked national concern, revealing a significant decline in student performance.
According to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), over 78% of the 1,955,069 candidates scored below 200, with only 0.63% achieving scores above 300. This marks a stark contrast to previous years and has prompted widespread discussions on the state of Nigeria’s education system. TheCable+1Punch News+1
Government’s Response to Examination Malpractice
In a statement, Dr. Tunji Alausa, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, attributed the disappointing results to the effectiveness of anti-malpractice measures implemented by JAMB. He emphasized that the stringent security protocols, including the use of computer-based testing (CBT) and enhanced monitoring, have significantly reduced instances of cheating.
“It is a big concern, and it’s a reflection of exams being done the proper way,” Alausa remarked during an interview with Channels TV.
He further noted that while JAMB’s efforts have been successful, similar measures have yet to be fully adopted by other examination bodies like the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Plans for Transition to Computer-Based Testing
Addressing the broader issue of examination malpractice, the Federal Government has announced plans to transition all national examinations to computer-based testing by 2027.
This initiative aims to modernize the examination process, reduce cheating, and improve the integrity of assessments.
The transition will begin with objective papers and, if successful, will extend to essay sections by May/June 2026. Dr. Alausa highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to combat fraud, stating, “We have to use technology to fight this fraud.”
He also pointed out the disparity between JAMB’s secure examination process and the vulnerabilities in WAEC and NECO exams, which are often marred by malpractice. Guardian Nigeria+2Voice of Nigeria+2Blueprint Newspapers Limited+2
Impact of Examination Malpractice on Students
The Minister expressed concern over the detrimental effects of examination malpractice on diligent students. He noted that the prevalence of cheating demotivates hardworking candidates, as they perceive the examination process as unfair.
“The worst part of cheating is that it disincentivises the hard-working ones,” Alausa remarked.
He emphasized the need for a collective effort to restore integrity to the examination system and ensure that deserving students are recognized for their efforts. allaboutschoolsng.com
Parental Perspectives on Student Performance
Parents have also voiced their concerns regarding the declining performance of students in national examinations. Mr. Oluwaseun Oluwajuwon, a parent, attributed the low scores to a lack of reading culture among students, with many preferring social media and other distractions over academic pursuits.
He urged parents to take a more active role in monitoring their children’s academic activities and to encourage a culture of hard work and discipline.
Mrs. Ifunanya Bello, another parent, highlighted the issue of unqualified teachers in the education system. She stressed the importance of employing qualified educators to ensure that students receive the quality education they deserve.
“Schools need to employ qualified teachers to enable these children have a sound education that they deserve to merit any position they find themselves in life,” Bello stated.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria grapples with the challenges facing its education system, the government’s commitment to transitioning to computer-based testing represents a significant step toward modernization and integrity in examinations.
However, the success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of technology, the training of personnel, and the active involvement of all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and policymakers. Voice of Nigeria
For more information on the government’s plans to reform the examination system, visit the official Ministry of Education website.
