JAMB Begins Centre Accreditation for 2025 UTME: The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially begun accrediting centres for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This accreditation process is crucial in ensuring the smooth conduct of the annual examination and maintaining the high standards associated with the UTME.
According to a statement by Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Director of Communications, any new Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres that wish to participate in the 2025 UTME must visit the JAMB website to review the requirements for establishing a JAMB-approved centre. Established centres that performed well during the 2024 UTME are also required to register their interest via the Centre Management System (CMS) Portal to confirm their eligibility.
Steps to Apply for Centre Accreditation
1. For New CBT Centres
To begin with, new centres must formally notify JAMB of their intention to participate in the accreditation process. This requires sending a letter to the Registrar of JAMB through the Zonal Director or State Coordinator in your state. This is the first step in showing your readiness to be part of the process.
- Also Read: How to print JAMB Admission Letter yourself
2. For Existing CBT Centres
On the other hand, centres that were accredited and participated successfully in the 2024 UTME can proceed to register their interest through the CMS Portal. These centres are expected to have a track record of compliance with JAMB’s standards, which gives them an advantage in the 2025 process.
3. Account Creation for New Centres
Furthermore, the Zonal and State Offices will assist new centres by creating CMS Portal accounts for their registration. This ensures that all applicants have access to the necessary tools to complete their accreditation process.
Importance of the Autobot/Autotest
In addition, all centres must conduct an Autobot/Autotest before the physical accreditation visit. JAMB will notify centres of the test date. This test is a vital part of the process because it assesses the technical readiness of your centre. Importantly, only centres that pass the Autobot/Autotest will proceed to the next stage of physical inspection. If your centre fails the test, it will not be revisited.
How to Ensure Your Centre Qualifies for Approval
If you are aiming to get your centre approved by JAMB, here are some practical tips to help you meet the requirements:
1. Adhere Strictly to JAMB Guidelines
First and foremost, familiarize yourself with JAMB’s requirements for CBT centres, which can be found on their website. Ensure your centre meets all specifications for equipment, facilities, and security. For example, ensure that the number of functional computers exceeds the minimum required by JAMB, and provide adequate power backup systems, such as generators or inverters.
2. Conduct a Pre-Accreditation Test*
Before the official Autobot/Autotest, it is advisable to conduct an internal test run at your centre. This will help you identify any technical or structural issues that need to be resolved. Doing so will increase your chances of passing the mandatory Autobot/Autotest.
3. Train Your Staff
Additionally, ensure your staff are well-trained to handle the technical requirements of running a CBT centre. They should be familiar with the systems and processes involved in the UTME, as this will demonstrate your centre’s capability during the physical accreditation visit.
4. Maintain a Clean and Secure Environment
Another crucial factor is the physical environment of your centre. The centre should be clean, well-organized, and secure. JAMB values centres that provide a conducive environment for candidates. Install surveillance cameras, provide adequate seating, and ensure proper ventilation and lighting.
5. Ensure Reliable Internet and Power Supply
Since the UTME is conducted online, a stable internet connection is non-negotiable. Also, uninterrupted power supply is essential. Invest in a backup generator and ensure all equipment is in good working condition.
6. Respond Promptly to JAMB Notifications
Lastly, stay updated with JAMB’s notifications and instructions. Respond promptly to all communication regarding test dates, inspections, or required updates to your centre. Being proactive shows your commitment to meeting JAMB’s standards.
Physical Accreditation Exercise
After successfully completing the Autobot/Autotest, centres that qualify will receive details about the physical accreditation exercise, scheduled for December 2024. During this stage, JAMB officials will inspect your centre to verify compliance with all requirements. If your centre passes, it will be included in the 2025 UTME registration and examination process. However, if your centre fails, it will not be revisited.
Final Approval and Inclusion
Centres that meet all requirements will be approved to participate in the 2025 UTME. This approval allows them to host candidates for the registration and examination phases. Therefore, ensuring compliance at every stage of the accreditation process is critical to achieving success.
Conclusion
Accreditation is a necessary step for any CBT centre that wants to be part of the 2025 UTME. Whether you are a new or existing centre, adhering to JAMB’s guidelines and maintaining high standards in your facilities and operations will increase your chances of approval. By following the advice above, your centre will be well-prepared for the accreditation process.
If you have further questions, visit JAMB’s official website or contact the nearest Zonal or State Office for assistance.
