Concerns are mounting over the declining cut-off marks set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for university admissions in Nigeria. A social media post by Brian Jonah Dennis has sparked widespread debate about the implications of the current admission criteria, which have seen significant reductions in cut-off marks over the years.
Reflecting on the Past
Dennis reminisced about a time when higher cut-off marks were required for competitive courses like Medicine at prestigious institutions such as the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), University of Ibadan (UI), and University of Benin (UNIBEN). Back then, scores of 220 and above were common benchmarks for admission, while other universities and polytechnics had thresholds of 200 or 180, reflecting the academic rigor expected of candidates.
Declining Standards Over the Years
In his post, Dennis highlighted the steady decline in cut-off marks:
- From 220 to 200
- Then from 200 to 180
- Eventually reaching 160 and now 140
He expressed concern that what was once considered a failing score is now sufficient for university admission.
“If someone scored 150 in JAMB in 2009, they would not bother telling their parents their score; they would just lie that their center got canceled or something. But in 2025, if you scored 140, you could get into university,” Dennis lamented.
Impact on Educational Standards
Dennis argued that the declining cut-off marks are indicative of broader issues in Nigeria’s academic system, including deteriorating educational standards. He criticized the system for “rewarding unintelligence” and fostering a society of graduates who struggle with basic comprehension skills.
“We are raising a dull society and rewarding unintelligence. That’s why a graduate can read but not understand what they read,” he added.
Call for Reflection
The criticism highlights growing concerns about the quality of graduates and the state of tertiary education in Nigeria. While some stakeholders argue that lower cut-off marks create opportunities for more students, others see it as a compromise on academic excellence.
A Growing Debate
The post has sparked heated debates online, with many agreeing that the lower cut-off marks are a sign of declining standards. Others, however, believe the real issue lies in the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the education system, including improvements in facilities, investments in quality teaching, and stricter academic policies.
Conclusion
The declining JAMB cut-off marks have ignited discussions about striking a balance between inclusivity and maintaining academic standards. As Nigeria continues to face these challenges, stakeholders in the education sector must collaborate to find sustainable solutions that restore confidence in the nation’s academic institutions.
