The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has firmly addressed recent accusations from some Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates who claim that JAMB is responsible for their inability to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme. In a statement released on Monday by JAMB's spokesman, Fabian Benjamin, the board clarified its position, stating that it has no control over the admissions process for HND candidates and, therefore, cannot be held accountable for their NYSC ineligibility.
JAMB’s statement was in response to claims from some prospective NYSC candidates who alleged that the board's actions, or lack thereof, were the reason they were not mobilized for the mandatory one-year NYSC program. However, JAMB was quick to dispel these assertions, emphasizing that its mandate does not extend to the admissions or mobilization process for HND programs.
“It is important to emphasize that JAMB has no involvement, authority, or control over the admissions process for HND candidates,” the statement began, clearly delineating the board's responsibilities. JAMB explained that its primary role is to oversee matriculation requirements and conduct examinations leading to undergraduate admissions, including National Diploma (ND) and Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) courses. However, it does not manage admissions or any selection processes for postgraduate courses or HND programs offered by tertiary institutions.
The controversy seems to stem from HND graduates who claim they were admitted to their institutions for National Diploma (ND) programs without JAMB's involvement. Some of these graduates completed their ND programs on a part-time basis but pursued their HND on a full-time basis, expecting to be eligible for the NYSC program. JAMB clarified that while it had previously endorsed the admission of these candidates into ND programs, their subsequent admission into HND programs was beyond its jurisdiction.
JAMB’s statement further expressed concern that some candidates were making baseless accusations, stating, “Accusing the Board of issues it has no mandate is preposterous.” The board also hinted at possible legal actions, noting that some candidates might have crossed into “criminality,” which JAMB would address appropriately.
In conclusion, JAMB’s message is clear: it plays no role in the NYSC mobilization of HND graduates and should not be blamed for issues beyond its control. The board remains committed to its core responsibilities and urges candidates to seek clarification on the proper channels responsible for their NYSC eligibility.