The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, has issued a stern warning regarding the enforcement of strict penalties for underage candidates in the ongoing 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration.

Speaking to reporters last Friday while monitoring the registration process at various centers in Lagos, Oloyede revealed that out of the 780,202 candidates registered so far, 11,512 are underage. He noted that while JAMB had previously permitted exceptionally brilliant candidates below 16 years to register, this privilege is now being abused.

To address this issue, Oloyede suggested several productive alternatives for underage students:

1. A-Level Studies: Instead of remaining idle, underage students can pursue a two-year A-Level program in a field related to their intended university course. This will better prepare them for tertiary education and improve their academic foundation.

2. Tech Courses: While waiting to reach the admissible age, students can enroll in technology courses and obtain certifications from reputable online platforms such as ALX, Techvinson Academy, KemonAI, Udemy, RITA Africa, SheCodes, Coursera, and Great Learning. This will equip them with valuable digital skills.

3. Vocational Training: Students can acquire practical skills in various vocational fields, including barbing, hairdressing, computer literacy, and technology-based programs. These skills not only enhance their knowledge base but also provide financial independence and reduce dependency on parents.

4. Professional Courses: Underage students can register for professional courses related to their intended university degrees. For example, aspiring Accounting students can begin preliminary ICAN certification, giving them a professional edge before university admission. Similarly, students interested in Nursing can enroll in Auxiliary Nursing programs.

5. Pre-Degree Programs: Universities and higher institutions offer pre-degree programs that help students prepare adequately for their chosen courses. Completing a pre-degree program enhances their academic readiness for university education.

6. JAMB Tutorial Centers: Underage candidates can enroll in JAMB tutorial centers for intensive coaching, ensuring they achieve higher scores when they eventually qualify to sit for the UTME.

By exploring these alternatives, underage students can productively utilize their time and enhance their academic and professional readiness before gaining admission into tertiary institutions.