UTME glitches have disrupted the conduct of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination across several centres, with reports of technical failures, centre shutdowns, and incidents involving candidate abductions raising concerns among stakeholders. The UTME glitches affected examination schedules and candidate experiences during the nationwide exercise.
The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, conducted annually by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is a key requirement for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The examination is computer-based and relies heavily on stable technical infrastructure and secure examination environments.
Over the years, the board has introduced reforms aimed at improving transparency and efficiency. However, operational challenges have occasionally emerged, particularly in relation to technical performance and centre management.
Reports from multiple examination centres indicate that UTME glitches caused delays and disruptions, with some candidates unable to complete their tests due to system failures. In certain locations, technical issues reportedly forced temporary shutdowns of examination centres.
In addition to the technical disruptions, incidents involving the abduction of candidates were reported in parts of the country, raising concerns about the safety of candidates travelling to and from examination venues. Affected candidates and parents expressed concerns over the impact of UTME glitches on performance, noting that delays and uncertainty created anxiety during the examination process.
Officials acknowledged the occurrence of technical challenges in some centres and indicated that measures were being taken to address the disruptions and reschedule affected examinations where necessary. The examination body reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the process while responding to operational issues encountered during the exercise.
The UTME glitches highlight ongoing challenges in managing large-scale computer-based examinations across diverse locations.
Technical failures and security concerns may affect candidate confidence and raise questions about fairness in the examination process. The incidents also point to the need for stronger infrastructure, improved contingency planning, and enhanced security arrangements for candidates.
