Examination boards in Kenya and Uganda have formally requested the Nigerian government to verify the academic credentials of Nigerian students applying for admission to their tertiary institutions. This request was disclosed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in a document prepared for the 2024 policy meeting.
The move comes after Nigeria recently suspended degree verification for students from Uganda, Kenya, Benin Republic, and other countries due to rising concerns over the proliferation of fake degrees. JAMB has emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s tertiary education system, stating that it will not falsify any student records.
In the document, JAMB confirmed that both Kenya and Uganda have officially sought verification of the academic records submitted by Nigerian candidates. This increased scrutiny reflects a growing concern among foreign institutions regarding the authenticity of qualifications presented by Nigerian applicants.
JAMB also reminded all Nigerian tertiary institutions of the requirement to report any admissions processed outside the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) before the August 31, 2024, deadline. This system is designed to streamline the admissions process and ensure that all candidates are evaluated fairly and transparently.
The request from Kenya and Uganda highlights the importance of verifying academic credentials in an era where fake certifications have become a significant issue. JAMB’s proactive stance aims to protect the reputation of Nigerian educational institutions and ensure that students are held to high standards of academic integrity.
As the situation develops, JAMB is expected to work closely with the examination boards in Kenya and Uganda to facilitate the verification process. This collaboration is crucial for maintaining trust in the qualifications of Nigerian students and ensuring that they can pursue their educational goals abroad without complications.
The requests from Kenya and Uganda serve as a reminder of the need for rigorous verification processes in the education sector. JAMB’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Nigeria’s tertiary education system is essential for fostering confidence among international institutions and ensuring that Nigerian students can successfully navigate the admissions process in foreign countries.
