Lecturer Raises Concern Over Candidates’ Computer Illiteracy During 2026 UTME

A A lecturer at Al-Hikmah University, Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi, has expressed concern over the level of computer illiteracy among candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

Lafiagi, who served as a proctor during the examination, said he observed several anomalies among candidates, particularly their inability to operate basic computer systems required for the computer-based test.

According to him, many candidates struggled with simple tasks such as using a mouse and keyboard, despite being familiar with smartphones and social media platforms.

“Perhaps the most disappointing thing for me was the inability of most of the candidates to use the computer. I had to explain and practically demonstrate how to use the mouse and keyboard, yet many still struggled because it was likely their first experience,” he said.

He recounted an incident where a candidate complained that a mouse was faulty but was later found to be moving it in the air instead of on a surface.

The lecturer also noted that many candidates failed to participate in the mock examination organised by JAMB, which was designed to familiarise them with the CBT format and examination interface.

“The mock examination served as training for candidates on how to handle the computer and understand the pattern of JAMB questions. Unfortunately, most candidates did not take advantage of it,” Lafiagi added.

He further disclosed that some candidates were logged out after their allotted time expired due to poor time management and lack of familiarity with the system, while others mistakenly ended their examinations prematurely.

“A particular candidate spent over an hour on just one subject and mistakenly ended the examination, leaving the remaining subjects unattended. Both candidates cried, but there was little that could be done,” he said.

Lafiagi urged parents to prioritise computer literacy for their children, stressing that the ability to use smartphones does not translate to proficiency in computer operations.

“It is important to make computer literacy a personal project for our children. That they can operate a smartphone does not mean they can use a computer,” he advised.

He also advocated for early introduction of computer education in schools, noting that computer-based testing is becoming the standard in Nigerian institutions.

“This is the 21st century. We must equip our children with the necessary tools to lead in the world they live in,” Lafiagi stated.

The lecturer’s remarks come amid increasing reliance on computer-based examinations across Nigeria’s education sector, raising concerns about the preparedness of students in adapting to digital testing systems.