The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) published examination results for underage candidates while reiterating strict age criteria and university admission guidelines. The move comes amid ongoing concerns about underage candidates enrolling in tertiary institutions.
JAMB has consistently maintained that candidates must be at least 16 years old to be admitted into universities. Publishing results for underage candidates marks a departure from the board’s previous position, which said such candidates would not be allowed to sit for the examination. The board has urged parents and guardians to follow the age requirements and ensure their children are of the appropriate age before enrolling them for the examination.
The winners: underage candidates who have received their results; and the Nigerian education system, which has provided an opportunity for young students. The losers: those who oppose admitting underage candidates; and the Nigerian government, which must enforce the age requirements.
Bottom Line: JAMB has published results for underage candidates. The age debate continues. The question is whether the board will enforce the age rules or allow exceptions to continue.