Special Report : Education advocates call for review of early morning JAMB exams

The ongoing Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Mock examinations have sparked a significant debate regarding the scheduling of early morning exam slots. Critics argue that these early slots pose logistical challenges and create unfair barriers for candidates.One of the primary concerns is the timing of the exams, which typically take place in the early morning hours. This timing can be problematic for candidates who may face challenges with transportation, especially in areas with limited public transportation options or during periods of heavy traffic congestion. Additionally, candidates who have to travel long distances to reach their exam centers may struggle to arrive on time for the early morning slots.

Furthermore, the early morning timing may disadvantage candidates who are not accustomed to waking up early or who have health conditions that make it difficult for them to function effectively in the morning. This could potentially impact their performance on the exam and undermine the fairness of the testing process.

However, there are pleas as educators and stakeholders highlight the plight of students like Toluwani IyanuOluwa Kehinde, whose dreams were dashed due to the 6:30 AM exam start time.

Muyiwa Aladeyelu, an esteemed educator and the founder of CIMET Ekiti, is among those leading the charge for change. He asserts that the 6:30 AM start time is unreasonable, particularly in urban areas like Lagos, where traffic congestion can severely impede timely arrival at exam centers. Aladeyelu emphasizes the need for JAMB officials to address this issue promptly to ensure equitable access to the exams for all candidates.

“It’s insecure. Most students have to start their journey around 5 AM.Secondly, exams can be at 8, and 3 sets can still be done that day. Anything could happen. Therefore, the students might miss their exams. This can be draining to the students. And it’s not cost-effective. If a student needs to lodge in a nearby hotel, this is going to be another expense for the parents.For these reasons, I believe the disadvantages outweigh the benefits, if any”.

The sentiment is echoed by Kolade Matthew, who recounts the heartbreaking experience of one of his students missing out on last year’s JAMB exam due to the early start time. Despite efforts to appeal to JAMB authorities, Matthew laments that their pleas fell on deaf ears, leaving the student’s aspirations in limbo.

“The candidates are expected to be at the venue around this period of time so they’ll be arranged and every other issue fixed. 6:30am might not really be the commencement time”.

David Jimoh, another advocate for change, acknowledges the logistical challenges faced by JAMB officials in coordinating exam sessions but urges consideration for the practical realities confronting candidates. He suggests that while candidates are expected to arrive early for logistical arrangements, a 6:30 AM start time may not be feasible for many, especially those traveling long distances or contending with urban traffic conditions.

“Typical of some Nigerians, you people would always have one excuse or the other.
If your exam center is far, then you should plan to find somewhere to stay close to the exam centre” Temitayo Oginni.

“The earliest should be 8:00am or the worst 7:30am. 6:30am is too early for an official exam of that nature. In this hard economy many will prefer to go by bus,keke,bike and if it’s too early they can fall prey,get charged more and won’t even b mentally alert for the exam”.

Overall, advocates argue that the disadvantages of the current early morning exam schedule far outweigh any purported benefits. They propose alternative exam times, such as 8 AM, which would not only enhance safety and convenience for candidates but also allow for multiple exam sessions to be conducted throughout the day, optimizing resources and minimizing disruptions.

Calls for reconsideration of the early morning exam slots highlight the need for JAMB to carefully consider the logistical challenges faced by candidates and ensure that the testing process is accessible and equitable for all. This may involve exploring alternative scheduling options or providing accommodations for candidates who require them.

“If possible I feel like rescheduling the UTME exam to a later time, such as 7 or 7:30 am, could greatly benefit students who struggle with the early morning timing due to transportation issues and center location challenges . This adjustment could help alleviate the stress and difficulty many students face in reaching the exam centers on time.” Concerned parent.

Given that JAMB exams are held only once a year and the importance of these exams for students’ academic futures, it is essential for the testing process to be fair and inclusive. Addressing concerns about the timing of the exams is crucial to ensuring that all candidates have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and succeed in the admissions process.

As the debate intensifies, all eyes are on JAMB officials to heed the voices of concern and implement measures that ensure a level playing field for all candidates, regardless of their geographical or logistical constraints.