The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is set to introduce Facial Biometric Verification (FBV) into the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) as part of measures to strengthen candidate identification, curb impersonation and improve examination security.
The Board disclosed the development as it moves towards a more advanced biometric verification system in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
Under the proposed system, candidates will have their identities verified through live facial recognition. The process will involve capturing a candidate’s face with a camera and transmitting the verification details through the appropriate system for authentication.
JAMB said the facial verification method is designed to be fast, contactless and more reliable, particularly in situations where fingerprint scanners fail to recognise candidates because of damaged, wet, dirty or worn fingerprints.
Fingerprint system to remain during transition
The planned introduction of facial verification will not immediately end the existing fingerprint system.
JAMB stated that the current 10-fingerprint biometric verification will initially operate alongside facial verification, with the fingerprint system expected to be gradually phased out over the next two to three years.
This means candidates should continue to comply with the existing JAMB biometric requirements until the Board announces specific changes to the registration and examination procedures.
Why the change matters
The move is expected to provide JAMB with an additional layer of identity authentication while reducing some of the challenges associated with fingerprint verification.
It could also help minimise cases of impersonation and reduce situations where genuine candidates experience difficulties during biometric authentication at examination centres.
JAMB is expected to prepare accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres and train relevant personnel ahead of the wider adoption of the technology.
What candidates should know
Prospective UTME candidates do not need to take any separate action regarding the proposed facial verification system unless JAMB issues specific instructions.
Candidates should continue to follow the official registration requirements and obtain information only from JAMB’s verified communication channels.
The introduction of facial biometric verification marks another major step in JAMB’s efforts to strengthen the integrity and security of the UTME examination process.
Team Babs Report will continue to monitor the development and provide updates as JAMB releases further details on the implementation of the new system.