Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Operators of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in Abia State have been warned against engaging in any form of examination malpractice capable of undermining the credibility of the examinations conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
The warning was issued by the Abia State Chief Examiner of JAMB, Christopher Okoro Kalu, during a meeting with JAMB-accredited CBT centre operators held at the Council Chamber of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic.
Okoro, who also serves as the Rector of the institution, said the engagement was aimed at strengthening oversight and ensuring strict adherence to guidelines during the conduct of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
He expressed concern that Abia State had been repeatedly mentioned in cases of UTME malpractice over the past five years, stressing that the state must reverse such a reputation.
According to him, the ongoing efforts to build “The New Abia” require collective commitment from all stakeholders, particularly those in the education sector, to uphold transparency and ethical standards.
Okoro, who listened to concerns raised by the operators, assured them that genuine operational challenges would be addressed. He, however, warned that any centre or individual found involved in examination malpractice would face appropriate sanctions.
He emphasized that safeguarding the dreams and future of young candidates requires collective vigilance and responsibility.
The Chief Examiner further disclosed that new operational standards would soon be introduced for CBT centres in the state, urging operators to strictly comply with approved guidelines and promptly report any challenges encountered during the examination process.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Abia State Coordinator of JAMB, Juliet Anakwe, urged CBT operators to avoid actions capable of tarnishing the image of the state.
She appealed to them to cooperate with the Chief Examiner in ensuring that the UTME process remains credible and free from irregularities.
