…Warns against malpractice, irregularities

By Steve Oko

Determined to safeguard the credibility of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Abia State, the State Chief Examiner of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Christopher Okoro Kalu, has engaged operators of JAMB-accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres on the need to uphold strict examination standards.

Prof. Okoro, who is also the Rector, Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, convened the strategic meeting at the institution’s Council Chamber, bringing together CBT operators to deliberate on practical steps to eliminate examination malpractice and strengthen the integrity of the examination process in the state.

Addressing the participants, the Chief Examiner warned operators against any form of irregularity capable of undermining ongoing efforts to reposition Abia’s education sector.

He expressed concern that the state had been linked to several cases of UTME malpractice in recent years and stressed that the trend must be decisively addressed.

Okoro noted that the vision of building a transparent and progressive “New Abia” would only be achievable when stakeholders in the education sector demonstrate commitment to ethical practices and accountability.

While commending the operators for their participation, Okoro also provided an opportunity for them to present their concerns and operational challenges.

He assured them that legitimate issues raised would be carefully addressed, emphasizing that due diligence would guide every intervention while protecting candidates from exploitation.

The Chief Examiner, however, reiterated a firm warning against examination malpractice, manipulation of the system, and any form of infractions involving candidates.

He maintained that any centre or individual found violating examination regulations would face strict sanctions.

According to him, protecting the academic aspirations and future of young people requires collective responsibility, urging CBT operators to work together to change negative perceptions and strengthen public confidence in the examination system.

Prof. Okoro further disclosed that new operational standards would soon be introduced for CBT centres in Abia State, advising operators to comply fully with approved guidelines and promptly report operational challenges to the appropriate authorities.

Speaking also, the JAMB State Coordinator, Mrs. Juliet Anakwe, urged CBT centre operators to protect the reputation of the state by strictly adhering to examination guidelines.

She encouraged them to support the Chief Examiner’s efforts to ensure that the UTME process remains transparent, credible, and free from malpractice.