Candidates seeking admission into Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programs in Colleges of Education will no longer need to take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), the Federal Government announced.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa made this announcement during the JAMB 2026 policy meeting in Abuja.
According to new rules, prospective NCE students only need a minimum of four credit passes in relevant O’Level subjects (WAEC, NECO, or equivalents) to qualify. “Candidates seeking admission into the NCE program with at least four credit passes will no longer be required to sit for the UTME,”
Alausa stated. He emphasised that candidates must still register with JAMB, and their credentials will be screened, verified, and certified through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) before admission letters are issued.
The exemption also applies to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma (ND) programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses.
The Minister explained that the policy is designed to ease the administrative burden on JAMB and to boost interest in critical sectors.
“This approach strikes a necessary balance between widening access and preserving the integrity of our admission system.
It will not only ease the pressure associated with UTME but also encourage greater participation in teacher education and agricultural programmes, both of which are critical to national development,” he said.
He also used the occasion to reaffirm the government’s commitment to digital transformation in education.
He called for the full adoption of computer-based testing as “an immediate necessity” and urged institutions to incorporate digital skills, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies into their curricula.
“The global shift to digitalisation is not far off; it is an urgent need,” Alausa declared.
“Our graduates must be equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for today’s economy.” Institutions and candidates are advised to check the portals for further information.
Administrator and Writer
