Bells University of Technology Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jeremiah Ojediran has explained the lowering of Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UMTE) cut-off marks.
Ojediran noted that the decision would create a level playing ground for students seeking admission.
On July 21, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and heads of tertiary institutions fixed 140 for universities, and 100 for polytechnics and colleges of education.
Ojediran noted that the continuous lowering of UTME cut-off marks would not affect the standard of education.
“What really matters is the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC) results when it comes to the standard of admission”, he told newsmen.
The VC said lowering institutional cut-off marks was to safeguard those institutions who want to fix their cut-off marks below the 140 stipulated by JAMB.
Ojediran added that JAMB result is a prerequisite requirement and that what qualifies a student are the five O`level credits.
Some students with 180 score enter institutions and make First Class or end up being the best graduating students, he said.
“We have also seen students who scored 360 in JAMB but could not compete with students who scored 180″, the VC hinted.