The 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) left many young people in South East Nigeria in distress. From server glitches to biometric errors and inexplicably low scores, the irregularities have disrupted futures and shaken public trust in the system.
But what’s even more concerning? The silence from the leaders who should be speaking out.
Speaking Up for Students
South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), in collaboration with other Civil Society Organisations, is leading the call for accountability. We have issued a formal statement urging South East Governors and Commissioners of Education to respond publicly and demand answers from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Thousands of students in the region have been impacted, and a hastily arranged supplementary exam has done little to restore confidence or provide fairness.
What We are Demanding
In our statement, we are calling for:
- Public commitment from South East leaders to stand up for their constituents
- A thorough and transparent investigation into the irregularities
- A complete review of JAMB’s systems and processes
- Emotional and academic support for affected students
This Is Bigger Than Exams
Education is not just about grades, it’s about equity, trust, and opportunity. When silence meets injustice, it amplifies harm. As a region known for its academic excellence, we must protect the dreams of our young people.
SSDO remains committed to advocacy that centers the rights, dignity, and future of our communities.