Why JAMB took UTME to Canada – Registrar

The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Prof. Segun Aina, has clarified the reasoning behind establishing a Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination centre in Canada. According to Aina, the purpose of this center is to expand access to education for Nigerians living in Canada and other parts of North America, rather than generating revenue.

The planned centre in Ottawa will serve those who wish to sit the examination for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions, as reported by a series of posts on X by Aina. This announcement came in response to public inquiries about the planned center, which is set to begin operations for the 2027 UTME.

Currently, JAMB conducts the examination in approximately 10 foreign countries, but the number of applicants was not the primary factor in deciding to establish such centers. Aina emphasized that the UTME is provided as a service to enhance access to education. Previously, JAMB had no examination centers in North America, which meant no candidates from the region could sit the UTME before the Ottawa center's establishment.

Aina explained that the board receives inquiries from prospective candidates and expects increasing interest following the announcement. He also addressed concerns about the need for acquiring or renting a building and employing additional personnel, stating that JAMB collaborates with Nigerian diplomatic missions in countries where it conducts the UTME.

They utilize temporary spaces within high commission premises and benefit from their staff's assistance in running the exams. The Canadian center's exploration did not incur any expenses, as the initiative was initiated during a visit to Canada for a conference. The examination will take place within the Nigerian High Commission's premises in Ottawa to keep costs low.