The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Dr. Mukhail Akinde, has dismissed claims that the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination results were a failure, attributing reported low scores to temporary software malfunctions rather than any shortcomings by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
Speaking to journalists at the institution, Dr. Akinde praised Oloyede’s reforms, particularly the Computer-Based Test system, which has reduced malpractice. However, he acknowledged that technology is not flawless.
“For us in academics, we speak with statistics. This year’s result is not a failure; it is a good result,” he said, noting that 50.29% of candidates scored between 160 and 199, a range he described as acceptable.
The rector commended Oloyede’s accountability, stating, “For the first time, I am seeing a leader in this country take full responsibility for minor glitches. Unlike many African leaders who are quick to shift blame, Prof. Oloyede took responsibility and has given those affected the opportunity to rewrite the examination.”
He dismissed calls for the JAMB registrar’s removal as baseless, emphasizing Oloyede’s role in restoring credibility to the examination body.
On parents and exam preparedness, Dr. Akinde rejected claims that candidates struggled due to unfamiliarity with computers, pointing out that mock exams had prepared them adequately.
He urged parents to monitor their children’s study habits and restrict phone use, suggesting that secondary school students should not own mobile phones to avoid distractions.
The Coordinator of the FPI CBT Centre, Mr. Ismail Odeyemi, explained that JAMB’s system was designed for ease of use, with multiple prompts before submission and on-site support.
“JAMB has simplified the entire process. There is a keyboard, a mouse, and clear instructions displayed on the computer screen. When a candidate selects an answer, the color changes, making it very intuitive,” he said.
The institution’s Technical Officer, Engr. Frank Ajibodu, added that candidates received a five-minute orientation before the exam, guiding them on navigation and submission. He encouraged students to overcome “examiphobia,” noting that anxiety existed even during paper-based tests.
