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| Focused UTME candidates writing their exams at a CBT center |
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) reported a rare case from the April 26, 2025 UTME session. A young woman sat through two hours of Computer-Based Testing without answering a single question. She followed her grandfather’s advice to do nothing and wait for a miracle instead of using her own knowledge .
Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, called the act a “dimension of gullibility.” He said the board will not tolerate baseless dreams of passing without effort. He reminded candidates that miracles do not happen in exam halls and urged them to focus on study and practice .
JAMB has also moved to safeguard exam integrity. Last week, it delisted four substandard CBT centres and arrested 27 impersonators. These sanctions show the board’s commitment to a fair exam for all candidates .
Across Africa, many people turn to traditional beliefs when facing stress. A recent study found that families often attribute life events to ancestral influence, seeking supernatural help first . In high-stakes tests, such beliefs can give a false sense of control but harm real performance.
Research in educational psychology shows severe test anxiety can freeze students and lower scores. Experts say strong prep, practice tests, and simple breathing exercises work much better than hoping for luck .
Counsellors urge candidates to build healthy habits: set a study plan, join peer groups, and rest well before exam day. They warn that superstition can deepen fear and distract from real skills.
UTME covers English, maths, and basic science. More than two million candidates register yearly. Success depends on hard work, clear thinking, and calm nerves. No miracle can replace solid study.
What’s your view on mixing belief and exams? Have you heard of other odd tips candidates use? Share your thoughts to spark a balanced discussion.