TOP STORY(ASUU): How JAMB Is Threatening Universities Autonomy – Prof. Osodeke

The National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke have accused the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) of threatening the autonomy of universities.

According to Osodeke, JAMB interferes in admission processes, regulation of academic activities thereby questioning the autonomy of higher institutions of learning in Nigeria.

He explained that it is the duty of Senate to offer admission to candidates, while the National Universities Commission (NUC), regulate and accredit programmes.

ASUU President in a statement said;

“The autonomy of universities is under increasing threat by the meddlesome activities of JAMB in admission processes and regulation of academic activities in the Nigerian University System. JAMB was created by an Act of the National Assembly in 1978 and is responsible for the conduct of matriculation examinations for admission into a tertiary institution in Nigeria, appointment of examiners and collection/dissemination of information on all matters relating to entrance examinations. It is the prerogative and responsibility of each university senate to superintend over all academic matters in the university. These include setting the admission requirements and approval of university undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

“Giving admission to candidates is the duty of senate, while regulation or accreditation of programmes is the prerogative of National Universities Commission. However, it is a matter of regret that JAMB is operating outside its jurisdiction of collecting and disseminating information on matters relating to admissions from respective institutions based on senate recommendations. “We call upon JAMB to desist from overstepping its original mandate and allow Universities to decide on admission policies and processes.”