In a recent address at the seventh biennial conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), delivered a stern warning to universities and tertiary institutions regarding the admission of underage students. The conference, held in Lagos, highlighted critical issues plaguing the education sector, focusing particularly on accountability and integrity in admissions processes.
The Call for Accountability
Prof. Oloyede underscored the urgency of halting the admission of underage students, citing a troubling case where a 15-year-old Nigerian student graduated from a university and applied for a postgraduate course abroad. The subsequent verification process revealed that the student had not been admitted through JAMB, casting doubts on the legitimacy of the admission.
"The Vice-Chancellor confirmed the graduation but admitted the student was not admitted through JAMB. Such practices jeopardize accountability, data protection, and tarnish the nation’s integrity," remarked Prof. Oloyede.
Challenges with State-Owned Universities
The Registrar also called out state-owned universities for their disproportionate numbers compared to federal institutions and raised concerns about the improper admission of diploma students. He highlighted a specific instance where a university admitted 3,000 out of 9,000 diploma students without adhering to proper procedures.
"These actions undermine our educational standards. Every institution must be held accountable to preserve the integrity of our education system," emphasized Prof. Oloyede.
Insights and Recommendations
Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Former Chief of Staff to the President, urged pro-chancellors to enhance their institutions' competitiveness and attractiveness to students. He emphasized the necessity of retaining top faculty and staff to bolster academic excellence.
"State-owned universities should identify niche areas that provide them with competitive advantages and enhance their reputation," Prof. Gambari advised.
Sen. Joshua Lidani, Chairman of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities (COPSUN) and Pro-Chancellor of Gombe State University, addressed governance challenges within the university system. These encompassed corrupt practices, 'miracle' exam centers, inadequate funding, and the proliferation of universities.
"The dissolution of governing councils and delays in their reconstitution disrupt university administration, exacerbating anomalies. Furthermore, frequent strikes by ASUU and other unions compromise stability and academic standards," noted Sen. Lidani.
Conclusion
The conference aimed to raise awareness of the pressing issues facing Nigerian tertiary education and proposed strategies for improving governance, standards, and quality within the system. The recommendations and warnings issued are intended to guide universities in adopting best practices to elevate educational standards nationwide.
This concerted effort seeks to safeguard the credibility of admissions processes and uphold the integrity of Nigeria's educational institutions in the global arena.
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