Senate Questions JAMB Over High UTME Fee Burden

During a budget defense session, the Nigerian Senate raised concerns regarding the ₦3,500 fee for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which they believe poses a financial burden on many families struggling with economic challenges. The chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions, Mr.

Amo Yohanna, urged the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to consider reducing the fee further to promote equitable access to education. The Senate highlighted operational challenges faced by candidates, including technical glitches during registration and limited computer-based test centers, particularly in rural areas, which restrict access and often compel candidates to travel long distances.

The Senate also scrutinized JAMB's projected revenue of ₦23.8 billion for 2023 and insisted on greater transparency in the board's financial operations. JAMB officials noted that the UTME fee had already been reduced from ₦5,000 to ₦3,500 in recent years as part of ongoing efforts to expand CBT centers nationwide and improve the examination process.