Lawmakers Shocked by UTME Centre Deficiencies
During a monitoring visit to several UTME centres in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), members of the House Committee, led by Chairman Oboku Oforji, were dismayed by what they found. Centres like Model Junior Secondary School Maitama, Capville Schools Dawaki, and SASCON International School Maitama lacked basic necessities.
What’s Missing? The Amenities Students Deserve
- Ventilation: Overcrowded halls with poor airflow were a common sight, with up to 250 students crammed into spaces without adequate ventilation.
- Air Conditioning: The absence of air conditioning systems made the already tense exam environment even more uncomfortable.
- First Aid: A lack of first aid services raised concerns about how emergencies would be handled during the exams.
Multiple Payments and Registration Nightmares
Beyond the physical conditions, students also voiced complaints about multiple payments and registration glitches. These issues, the committee noted, added unnecessary stress to an already high-stakes situation. Think about it: these students are trying to secure their future, and they are being bogged down by technical difficulties and extra fees.
JAMB Commended, But Change is Needed
While commending the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for their efforts in conducting the examination, the committee made it clear that improvements are urgently needed. They assured that these complaints would be addressed during a stakeholders’ meeting with JAMB management.
What’s Next? A Promise for Better UTMEs
The committee has committed to making recommendations to enhance the quality, safety, and integrity of future UTME exercises. This includes addressing the issues of overcrowding, poor ventilation, and registration problems. Let’s hope these promises translate into tangible improvements for the next set of UTME candidates.
The bigger Picture: Investing in Education
This isn’t just about a few exam centres in Abuja. It’s about creating an environment where Nigerian students can thrive and reach their full potential. By providing better facilities and streamlining the registration process, we can give them a fair shot at success. The future of Nigeria depends on the education of its youth. We need to make sure they have the resources and support they need to succeed.
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