1.1 Introduction
Biometric authentication refers to the process of verifying an individual's identity based on their unique biological characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans. In this study, fingerprint biometric authentication is used as a secure method for verifying candidates' identities during the Post-UTME screening process (Adebayo & Sulaiman, 2020). In recent years, the adoption of biometric technologies has seen a significant rise across various sectors, particularly in education, as institutions seek secure and efficient methods to manage examinations and student records. One of the most promising biometric systems is fingerprint authentication, which leverages the uniqueness of individuals' fingerprints to provide robust identification. This method is especially relevant in the context of the Post-UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) screening process in Nigeria, where the need for reliable candidate identification is paramount.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Limitation of the study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
In Nigeria, the educational sector began to face significant challenges related to examination malpractices, particularly with the introduction of the Post-UTME screening system in the mid-2000s. The Post-UTME exam was designed to serve as an additional layer of assessment to the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) administered by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). However, issues such as impersonation, document falsification, and examination malpractice soon emerged, undermining the integrity of the process (Owolabi, 2018). The adoption of biometric systems, particularly fingerprint authentication, in Nigerian educational institutions began in the early 2010s. Universities like the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) were among the first to explore this technology to combat examination fraud and streamline the admission process (Akinwumi & Omotosho, 2019). The primary motivation behind this shift was the uniqueness of fingerprints, which made impersonation virtually impossible. As Adebayo and Musa (2020) observed, the introduction of fingerprint biometric systems in Post-UTME screening greatly reduced cases of impersonation and other forms of fraud, enhancing the credibility of the process.
The design and implementation of fingerprint biometric authentication systems for Post-UTME screening have evolved with advancements in technology. Early implementations relied on basic fingerprint scanners, but newer systems integrate cloud-based storage, real-time verification, and data analytics to improve efficiency and accuracy. Today, fingerprint biometric systems are widely recognized as a critical tool in ensuring secure and transparent admission processes across Nigerian tertiary institutions (Oladipo & Oyeniran, 2021).
The Post-UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) is a crucial part of the admissions process for students seeking entry into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. While the introduction of this examination has enhanced the selection process, it has also revealed certain limitations, particularly in the area of candidate verification. Fraudulent practices such as impersonation and document falsification have become common issues, leading to unreliable admission results and affecting the credibility of the process (Ojo & Ajayi, 2018). This growing challenge has prompted many institutions to explore more secure and efficient methods for candidate identification and screening.
Biometric technology, particularly fingerprint authentication, has gained attention as a solution to these challenges. Fingerprint authentication offers a highly secure method of verifying a person's identity based on the unique patterns of their fingerprints. This technology has been successfully used in various sectors, including banking, law enforcement, and healthcare, to prevent fraud and ensure reliable identification (Ezugwu & Eze, 2019). The education sector in Nigeria has begun to recognize the potential of biometric systems in enhancing examination security, particularly in screening processes such as the Post-UTME.
The traditional methods of candidate verification, such as the use of paper documents and photo identification, have proven to be susceptible to fraud and impersonation. As noted by Akinola (2020), these conventional methods are not only prone to human error but also contribute to delays in the screening process. Consequently, the implementation of a fingerprint biometric authentication system can significantly improve the accuracy of candidate identification, reduce the likelihood of impersonation, and streamline the overall screening process.
The challenges encountered that led to the execution of this research is that, there is inefficiency in managing large volumes of candidates during the screening process in the existing system. With thousands of students applying to various institutions, the traditional methods of candidate identification, which rely on paper documentation and manual checks, is no longer sufficient to ensure accurate and timely verification (Ogunleye, 2019). It is against the background that the developments of this software will contribute to the security of candidate information by ensuring that sensitive personal data is securely stored and accessed only through biometric authentication.
1.3 Statement of Problem
The Post-UTME screening system is a vital component of the admissions process for Nigerian tertiary institutions, yet it continues to face significant challenges. One of the major issues is the prevalence of impersonation and examination fraud. Candidates often employ fraudulent methods, such as hiring individuals to sit for their exams or falsifying identification documents, undermining the credibility of the screening process (Adewale & Omotosho, 2020). This problem is particularly troubling in large institutions where manual verification processes are both time-consuming and prone to human error.
Furthermore, the security of candidate information is a growing concern. The lack of a reliable, secure system for verifying candidate identity increases the risk of data breaches and misuse of sensitive information. Fingerprint biometric systems, while offering a solution to this problem, is still underutilized in many institutions due to the cost of implementation and the technical expertise required to maintain the system (Babalola & Adeyemi, 2021).
There is also a concern about the scalability of existing screening methods. As the number of applicants continues to grow, the current systems in place are struggling to meet the demand. This is not only causing delays but also increasing the likelihood of errors in candidate verification and processing. Institutions need a system that is capable of handling large numbers of candidates without compromising accuracy and security (Umeh & Okeke, 2020).
1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to design and implement a fingerprint biometric authentication system for Post UTME screening system. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To develop a reliable fingerprint biometric authentication system that verifies candidates' identities during the Post-UTME screening process.
- To reduce the prevalence of impersonation and examination fraud in the Post-UTME screening through the use of biometric technology.
- To improve the efficiency and accuracy of candidate identification and verification during the screening process.
- To provide a scalable solution capable of handling large volumes of candidates without compromising security or system performance.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and technical feasibility of implementing fingerprint biometric systems in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
1.5 Significance of Study
This study will be of great significance to Nigerian tertiary institutions as it will enhance the integrity of the Post-UTME screening process by providing a secure and reliable method of candidate identification. The implementation of a fingerprint biometric authentication system will reduce the incidence of impersonation and examination fraud, ensuring that only the rightful candidates are screened.
The study will also improve the overall efficiency of the screening process. With the adoption of biometric technology, institutions will be able to verify candidates' identities quickly and accurately, reducing delays and manual errors. This will ultimately streamline the admissions process, making it more effective and time-efficient.
Finally, this research will provide valuable insights for educational institutions considering the adoption of biometric systems, offering practical recommendations for cost-effective implementation and scalability. This will enable institutions to handle large volumes of candidates without compromising the security or performance of the system.
1.6 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the design and implementation of fingerprint biometric authentication system for Post UTME screening system.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Establishment Policies: Establishment policies posed a serious limitation as most staffs are not ready to release information needed for this research work. There were lots of information needed from the staffs of this institution to enhance the study which took them time to release or they did not release at all for security purposes, hence the scope was reduced.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet).
1.8 Definition of Terms
Biometric Authentication:
Biometric authentication refers to the process of verifying an individual's identity based on their unique biological characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans. In this study, fingerprint biometric authentication is used as a secure method for verifying candidates' identities during the Post-UTME screening process (Adebayo & Sulaiman, 2020).
Fingerprint Recognition:
Fingerprint recognition is a biometric technique that uses the unique patterns of ridges and valleys on an individual's fingers to authenticate their identity. It is considered one of the most reliable and widely adopted biometric methods due to the uniqueness and permanence of fingerprints (Ogunleye, 2019).
Post-UTME Screening:
Post-UTME screening is an assessment process conducted by Nigerian tertiary institutions to further evaluate the suitability of candidates who have passed the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for admission into the institution. It is a critical step in the university admission process (Owolabi, 2018).
Authentication System:
An authentication system is a technological framework used to confirm the identity of a user or individual. in the context of this study, the fingerprint biometric authentication system is designed to verify the identity of candidates taking part in the Post-UTME screening process (Ajayi & Akinbiyi, 2021).
Tertiary Institutions:
Tertiary institutions refer to post-secondary educational institutions that offer higher education programs, such as universities, polytechnics, and colleges. In this study, the focus is on universities in Nigeria and their use of biometric systems in the admissions process (Babalola & Adeyemi, 2021).
