By Erewunmi Peace

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced reforms allowing tertiary institutions greater autonomy in their admission processes, effectively making the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination optional, rather than mandatory, for prospective students.

Under the new guidelines, universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education can admit students based solely on their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) results, such as WAEC or NECO, if they choose. The move aims to reduce barriers to higher education and broaden access for qualified candidates.

However, officials clarified that JAMB has not been abolished. Institutions retain the discretion to continue requiring JAMB scores as part of their admission criteria. This flexibility allows schools to determine the best approach for evaluating applicants while ensuring standards are maintained.

“The reforms are designed to empower institutions and make the admission process more inclusive,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Education. “Qualified students can now gain admission through multiple pathways, including but not limited to JAMB.”

Education stakeholders have welcomed the change, noting that it could ease the financial and logistical burden on students while promoting merit-based admissions across the country.