FCT, Abuja – The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released the official scheduled times for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), amid growing criticisms over the early accreditation times.
The release, however, has sparked a mix of reactions from Nigerians, with many questioning the practicality of the schedules and their impact on students.
In a post made via X, on Friday, May 2, JAMB clarified that the exam would begin at 8:00 am, with accreditation starting at 6:30 am for the first session.
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The second session is scheduled to begin at 10:30 am, and the third session at 3:30 pm, concluding by 5:30 pm.
However, the schedule has raised concerns regarding the early arrival times, particularly the 6:30 am accreditation.
Peter Obi criticises early accreditation times
The release of the schedule comes after a public outcry, especially from Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election. Obi criticised the board, describing the 6:00 am accreditation time as “reckless,” particularly for teenagers aged 15-17, who are expected to travel across far-flung locations to sit for their exams.
In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi expressed his concern for the safety of students, especially in light of Nigeria’s security challenges. “Setting exams for vulnerable teenagers as early as 6:00 am while transporting them across far-flung locations is reckless,” Obi stated.
He also raised the issue of students facing accidents, getting lost, or suffering from unnecessary trauma as they strive to access their right to education. “Who takes responsibility when a 15- or 16-year-old child disappears or is harmed while trying to access their right to education?” he asked.
JAMB defends exam schedule
In response to Obi’s criticism, JAMB quickly issued a statement defending the accreditation times, asserting that they are necessary for the smooth running of the exams. The board emphasised that students are not required to start their exams until 8:00 am, with the early accreditation ensuring that all candidates are seated and ready on time.
“The 6:30 am accreditation is essential to ensure that we meet the requirements of a smooth and orderly process, and the exam itself will commence promptly at 8:00 am,” JAMB clarified in the statement.
