The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has proudly announced that it stands as the largest user of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for conducting examinations globally.
This bold declaration was made by the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, on Tuesday during this year’s International Week hosted by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka, in collaboration with various foreign universities.
Prof. Oloyede shared the stage as a panellist with distinguished figures, including Dr. Chris Maiyaki, acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC); Mr. Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), represented by ICT Director Mr. Joseph Odoh; and UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola.
The panel also featured other prominent academic leaders from institutions such as Pan Atlantic University and Lagos State University of Science and Technology.
During his address, Oloyede asserted, “No other examination body in the world, including the US and the UK, has been able to register and conduct exams online for almost 2 million candidates at a go. Only JAMB has this record, and it has done it now successfully for many years.” He emphasized JAMB’s ability to communicate effectively with candidates through online platforms.
The Registrar further highlighted JAMB’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that the organization has successfully accommodated candidates with special needs, such as the visually impaired and albinos. He stated, “This makes our entrance exam inclusive, credible, equitable, and cost-effective.”
However, Oloyede stressed the importance of human intelligence in leveraging technology, stating that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gained global acceptance, it is only effective when paired with natural intelligence. He remarked, “Inclusive digital transformation is still a way to go for higher education anywhere globally.”
Dr. Chris Maiyaki, in his remarks, underscored the significance of adapting to the fast-evolving digital landscape. He expressed concerns regarding Nigeria’s higher education system, which he described as being at a crossroads in its journey towards inclusive transformation.
“This transformation is not merely about reimagining education and creating systems that leave no one behind,” he cautioned.
Maiyaki commended UNILAG for its leadership in enhancing Nigeria’s global academic standing, aligning with the NUC’s vision to position Nigerian universities as dynamic centers of innovation.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, elaborated on the purpose of the annual international week, now in its fourth iteration. She explained that the event aims to build the capacity of faculty members and foster global collaboration in the digital age.
“The programme, which has impacted up to 500 students across two departments, will further boost employment and skills development as well as urbanization,” she added.
In a goodwill message, the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, His Excellency Juan Ignacio Sell, expressed his enthusiasm for participating in the conference, reaffirming Spain’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Nigeria and UNILAG. He highlighted upcoming collaborations, including the introduction of Spanish language courses at UNILAG and initiatives focused on empowering women in the sciences.
Prof. Leila Mathieu, First Secretary of the EU Commission in Nigeria, reiterated the European Union’s dedication to supporting African universities through grants, peer-reviewed research, and scholarships to enhance their innovation ecosystems.
Among the notable attendees were Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s representative, Commissioner for Tertiary Education Mr. Sule Tolani; the Consul-General of South Africa, Prof. Bobby Moroe; US Consul-General in Lagos, Will Stevens; and several esteemed academics from both national and international institutions.
This event highlights JAMB’s significant role in advancing educational technology in Nigeria and its commitment to inclusivity and excellence in the examination process.
Leave a Reply