A civil society network, the African Centre for Human Advancement and Resource Support (CHARS-Africa) has condemned the recent mass failure of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.
JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, recently acknowledged that a technical glitch disrupted the UTME in 157 centers.
This malfunction led to unusually low scores for 379,997 candidates, prompting widespread complaints from students and parents.
In response, JAMB has scheduled a retake of the examination for the affected candidates starting from May 16.
Speaking to journalists in Aba on Friday, the Executive Director of CHARS-Africa, Comrade Amaka Biachi, described the incident as a national crisis and a blatant manifestation of institutional carelessness.
“The emotional and psychological toll on the affected students is alarming, with reports of severe trauma and even death.
“JAMB’s excuse for this monumental failure is unacceptable, especially considering the ample time and resources available for preparation,” she said.
Biachi noted that rebuilding trust in critical institutions like JAMB was essential, especially when dealing with the nation’s youth.
“In light of current economic challenges, CHARS-Africa demands:. Adequate compensation for trauma, financial loss, and inconvenience suffered by affected candidates.
“Logistical support for candidates traveling long distances to retake the examination,
provision of educational materials, including data, required for the said rescheduled examination.
“Accountability and prosecution of personnel responsible for this failure to restore trust and serve as a deterrent.”
The director said the demands were based on section 18 of the Constitution: that guarantees the right to education and dignity.
“Section 44 of the Constitution that Protects citizens’ right to fair hearing and administrative justice.
“The JAMB Act mandates fair, transparent, and efficient conduct of entrance examinations.
“Then the Consumer Protection Laws Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018 that Provides for consumer complaints, redress, and investigation.
She called on JAMB and relevant authorities to address these demands immediately and that government should hold accountable those responsible for this gross misconduct.
