The Federal Government recently launched a committee to eradicate examination malpractices, with Emeritus Professor Is-haq Oloyede at the helm. As Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Oloyede has been a vocal advocate for eliminating examination malpractices that have plagued the country’s education system for decades.
Examination malpractices in Nigeria date back to 1914, during the Cambridge examination. Various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and candidates, have contributed to the menace. Prof. Oloyede identifies the proliferation of illegal tutorial centres, or “miracle centres,” as a major contributor to examination malpractices. These centres, often owned by influential individuals, compromise the examination process.
Despite challenges, Prof. Oloyede remains committed to eradicating examination malpractices. As Registrar of JAMB, he introduced measures to prevent exam malpractices, including biometric data. He emphasised the need for collective action, describing examination malpractices as a “national embarrassment.”
Prof. Oloyede’s appointment as Chairman of the National Committee to Eradicate Examination Malpractice reflects his dedication. The committee comprises key stakeholders from various examination bodies.
The committee, inaugurated at the Conference Hall of the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja recently, comprises key stakeholders from various examination bodies, including JAMB, WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB. Memberships are also drawn from ANCOPSS, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers. Its primary objective is to tackle examination malpractice, a longstanding issue in Nigeria’s education system.
The Minister of Education Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, praised Oloyede’s reformist leadership and innovative use of technology. Dr. Alausa emphasised restoring integrity to Nigeria’s education system, stating, “This is not a fight against students but a collective effort to secure the future of education in Nigeria.”
The committee is expected to submit its report by mid-2025. The government has directed examination bodies to adopt enhanced security measures, including integrating photographs, birth certificates, and National Identification Numbers (NIN), into certificates by June 2025.
Prof. Oloyede’s track record in reforming institutions is impressive. As Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, he laid groundwork for institutional excellence. At JAMB, he revolutionised the admissions process, bringing transparency and technological advancement.
With his leadership, Nigeria can look forward to a credible education system where examination integrity is upheld, and hard work and merit are rewarded.
