The first day of Computer-Based Test (CBT) examinations for 100-level students at the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) was reportedly marred by confusion and overcrowding at the institution’s ICT centre, raising concerns among students about the organisation of the examination process.
Findings by The Nigeria Education News, which reached out to several students of the institution, revealed that large crowds gathered early at the ICT centre on the opening day of the examinations, creating long queues and intense pressure as students struggled to gain access to the examination hall.
Some students who spoke with the publication described the situation as chaotic, noting that the available facilities appeared unable to adequately accommodate the large number of candidates scheduled for the test.
According to reports, the crowd surge led to incidents in which some students were pushed around while trying to enter the hall, resulting in torn slippers, stained clothes, and general disorder within the examination environment.
A few students also claimed that security personnel deployed to control the crowd struggled to manage the situation, with some candidates alleging that physical force was used to restore order.
There were also reports that the pressure from the crowd caused some students to faint, while others misplaced personal belongings during the confusion around the examination centre.
Although students were reportedly advised not to bring mobile phones to the venue, some candidates still came with their devices, and a few claimed that their phones went missing during the rush.
One student, Peter Michael, told The Nigeria Education News that the recurring nature of the situation has become a major concern for many students.
“Imagine, it has been over five years since the introduction of CBT for 100-level students if I am not mistaken, and this same situation continues every year. Honestly, I feel for the students writing exams under this kind of condition. Before even entering the hall, they are already exhausted from the tension,” he said.
Another student, Chidera, explained that the examinations were meant to be organised in batches involving several departments, but he claimed that the arrangement was not properly implemented.
“Based on the memo, the exams were supposed to be in batches, maybe about five departments per batch. But the instructions were not properly followed, and that was what caused the chaotic situation we saw today,” he said.
Chidera also expressed concern that the situation could worsen when large courses such as mathematics and physics are scheduled, as those subjects are taken by students across many departments.
Another student, Na Lee, recalled a similar experience in previous years, saying crowd-related challenges have been a recurring issue during CBT examinations.
“Just wait until the day you write mathematics. You will see the crowd. Rain even finished us last year,” the student remarked.
Some senior students also shared their perspectives on the matter, calling for improvements in the university’s CBT infrastructure.
A 300-level student identified as Graham suggested that the university should expand its CBT facilities.
“FUTO should have close to four CBT centres. The resources are there. If not, they should consider going back to the pencil-and-paper format,” he said.
Another 300-level student, Godwin, expressed frustration that the issue has persisted for several years without significant improvement.
“This same issue happens every year without the authorities finding ways to improve the condition of the CBT exams. The situation keeps deteriorating and something really needs to be done,” he said.
Meanwhile, another student, Kele Chi, said some students who arrived at their scheduled time were unable to write their examinations and were asked to return the following day.
“I came by my scheduled time in the afternoon only to go back home stressed because of the pushing and confusion. Our exams were rescheduled for tomorrow, even though we already have another paper,” the student said.
The development has sparked renewed calls for the management of the Federal University of Technology Owerri to review its examination logistics, particularly for large first-year courses that attract hundreds of candidates.
Students who spoke with The Nigeria Education News said better scheduling, improved crowd control, and the expansion of CBT facilities could help prevent similar situations in future examination exercises.
