Nnamdi Azikiwe University has achieved a significant milestone in its admission process by successfully launching and concluding a proctored Computer-Based Test (CBT) screening exercise for exceptional underage candidates. These candidates scored 80 per cent and above (320 and above) in the recently concluded Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination and are seeking admission into the University for the 2026/2027 academic session.

In compliance with JAMB guidelines, the University's Management Information and Communication Technology Unit (MICTU), under the directive of the Vice-Chancellor, developed and deployed a secure proctored CBT platform for the screening exercise. The exercise was supervised by the candidates' chosen first-choice university.

The screening exercise was conducted seamlessly through the University's digital CBT platform under strict supervision and real-time monitoring by the Admissions Unit and MICTU teams. This demonstrates the institution's commitment to technological innovation, transparency, and excellence in admissions administration.

The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyahie, approved the screening format for the exceptional candidates. The approach was designed to reduce financial burdens on candidates and parents, enhance accessibility, guarantee candidate safety, and align the University's admission processes with international and national digital assessment standards.

The screening exercise was supervised by the Deputy Registrar in charge of Admissions, Mrs Ogonna Nwaokeke, who represented the Registrar, Dr Chinenye Okeke, and the Director of MICTU, Prof. Ikechukwu Onyenwe. They ensured strict adherence to the University's admission standards and the integrity of the entire process.

The proctored CBT platform enabled real-time supervision of candidates, live monitoring, instant scoring, and enhanced examination security, making the screening process highly efficient, transparent, and credible.

The adoption of proctored CBT examinations presents enormous benefits in a physically challenging environment like Nigeria. It reduces stress on candidates and parents while promoting safer and more inclusive participation. It also encourages a hybrid model in which close candidates can participate in person, while those challenged by long distances can participate virtually.

The system creates opportunities for physically challenged candidates and individuals with special needs by enabling more flexible, technology-driven assessment options. It reduces mobility barriers and improves access to quality education. The initiative further supports environmental sustainability by reducing unnecessary travel and logistical demands associated with conventional large-scale examination processes.

This achievement reflects Nnamdi Azikiwe University's determination to entrench merit, innovation, accessibility, and global best practices in its admission process, befitting its growing reputation as the 'University of the Moment'.