The Federal Government has issued a sobering revelation, predicting that merely 20% of candidates sitting the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) may secure admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide. Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, disclosed this while overseeing the ongoing UTME alongside JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, in Abuja.
With over 1.9 million candidates registered for the UTME, concerns loom over the limited capacity of public tertiary institutions and the challenges faced by private institutions in filling their admission quotas due to high tuition fees. Mamman cautioned against excessive pressure from parents, urging them to allow their children to mature before pursuing tertiary education.
Highlighting the importance of skills acquisition, Mamman stressed the need for students to possess practical skills even if they do not proceed to tertiary education. He emphasized that skills acquisition is vital for ensuring a meaningful life beyond secondary school, aligning with the government's focus on vocational training.
Additionally, Mamman addressed concerns regarding the age requirement for university entry, expressing worry over younger candidates' ability to handle the university environment effectively. He hinted at a potential review of the age requirement, currently set at 18, to ensure that students are adequately prepared for tertiary education.
Commending JAMB for its technological advancements in conducting examinations, Mamman acknowledged the role of technology in curbing examination malpractice. The government's emphasis on skill acquisition and the potential revision of age requirements underscore its commitment to improving the quality and accessibility of higher education in Nigeria
