As we approach the commencement of the 2023 UTME/DE registration, it has been reported that the number of the CBT centres to be used for the process this year has been reduced from what it was last year. This was disclosed by the Registrar, Prof. Isaq Oloyede, when he met with commissioners for education from across the country on Monday in Ikeja, Lagos.

It was gathered that some of the centres used lat year were disqualified from participating this year for reasons such as poor facilities, not complying with the guidelines of the Board, involvement in examination malpractice among others.

While the total number of CBT centres disqualified by the board was not revealed, we learnt that, in Ogun State, the number of CBT centres was reduced from 43 to 21, in Abia State, the number was reduced from 21 to 14 and in Kogi State, it was reduced from 17 to 16.

While reacting to this development, the Association of Tutorial School Operators stated that this reduction will cause pain and stress for candidates.

He said, “The CBT reduction will make candidates pass through a lot of rigours to sit the exam. I can’t imagine the stress and risks the students will experience. Some of the may be taken to far away CBT centres due to the reduction. A candidate in Surulere may be taken to Badagry. By the time the candidates go through the high cost of transportation, travel long distances, and sleep in hotels to sit the exam, some will get kidnapped, raped and a lot will fail and we won’t get the best into our universities. It is not worth it.”

He suggested that JAMB should build mega senatorial CBT centres of 5,000 capacities that would accommodate more UTME candidates.

For all prospective candidates for the 2023 UTME, we advise you start preparing for your exams now.