The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set the cut-off mark for admission to Nigerian universities at 140, with polytechnics and colleges of education set at a minimum of 100.
This decision, made during the 2024 Policy meeting of JAMB, has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders.
During the meeting, the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, also directed that admission to tertiary institutions should not be granted to candidates under the age of 18. This directive aims to address concerns about parents pressuring their underage children into tertiary education.
While some vice-chancellors, rectors, and registrars present at the meeting expressed their opinions on the cut-off mark, the minister emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of underage admissions. The set cut-off marks by JAMB serve as benchmarks for admission to tertiary institutions, but institutions have the option to set their own cut-off marks above the minimum set by JAMB.
The minister’s directive aligns with the 6-3-3-4 system of education, which requires students to complete six years of primary school, three years of basic education, and three years of secondary school before being eligible for tertiary education. Mamman stated that JAMB should only admit eligible students who have reached the legal age of 18.
In addition to addressing the issue of underage admissions, the Ministry of Education is implementing skills training programs for students from primary school onwards. This initiative aims to provide alternative educational pathways and equip students with valuable skills for their future endeavors.
Overall, these measures seek to ensure that students are adequately prepared for tertiary education and promote inclusive education by catering to diverse student needs.
