Record Number of Underage Candidates Registered for 2025 UTME: What’s Next for Nigeria’s Education System?
In an unprecedented move, over 41,000 underage candidates have registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria, a decision that has sparked conversation across educational circles. The news was delivered by JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, during a press conference in Abuja. This special allowance was granted following the approval of Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, to give academically exceptional candidates who are 16 years old or younger a chance to prove their capabilities.
Prof. Oloyede emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that a total of 41,027 youths registered under this special category. However, only 467 candidates were able to meet the high standards necessary to proceed in the application process, achieving scores of 320 and above out of the total registered. Breakdown statistics reveal that while 1.16% of candidates scored exceptionally, the remaining scores varied significantly, with a notable 39.69% scoring between 160 and 199.
The JAMB leader also shed light on an important development regarding student integrity; he reported that 50 of these underage candidates were linked to a malpractice incident. This revelation underscores the ongoing need for robust measures to ensure that academic excellence remains untainted.
In a twist to the regulations, earlier discussions suggested an increase in the minimum admission age from 16 to 18, which was to be implemented by 2025. However, Dr. Alausa has decided to uphold the current rule, allowing for exceptional candidates to showcase their skills, a decision aimed at fostering a nurturing educational environment for gifted youths. Oloyede pointed out the misinterpretation of the Minister’s stance, clarifying that some perceiving this change as a backward step were mistaken.
The conversation around this topic opens a broader dialogue on how Nigeria can better support young intellectuals while simultaneously addressing issues of fairness and integrity in the educational landscape. As other countries have successfully integrated talented younger students into advanced academic programs, Nigeria seems to be on a promising path.
For educators, policymakers, and parents alike, this situation presents an opportunity for reflection on educational approaches, and the development of systems that recognize and reward talent and hard work, while ensuring that all candidates adhere to the highest standards of integrity.
As the date for the examination approaches, all eyes will be on JAMB to see how these underage candidates navigate this significant academic milestone. How will their experiences shape the future of education in Nigeria? Only time will tell.
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