Assessing the Impact of JAMB Scores, 'O' Level Results, and Communication Skills on Post-UTME Examinations in Nigerian Tertiary Education

Abstract

This empirical investigation, conducted at Bauchi State University Gadau, critically assesses the correlation between Joint
Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) scores, Secondary School Certificate ('O' Level) results, communication skills,
and performance in the Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME). Established in response to the
inefficacies noted in admissions processes prior to the establishment of JAMB in 1978, Post-UTME was intended to refine the
screening of candidates. Using Simple Linear Regression and Pearson correlation coefficient, this research analyzed data from
1,300 students admitted in 2023 to assess the effectiveness of these metrics as predictors of academic success. The findings reveal
a weak positive correlation among the variables, showing that JAMB scores, 'O' Level results, and communication skills together
explain only 18.4% of the variance in Post-UTME scores. This suggests a significant limitation in the current use of these metrics
as reliable predictors of university performance, indicating the need for a broader evaluation framework that includes a variety
of academic and personal factors. The study is constrained by its focus on a single institution, which may limit the generalization
of the findings. Future research should extend to multiple universities and consider longitudinal designs to track the impact of
admission policies over time. This study contributes to ongoing discussions about refining admissions processes in Nigeria,
advocating for an evidence-based approach to enhance fairness and effectiveness in university selections.