Sindara Eddy, Ado-Ekiti
The Joint Admissions And Matriculation Board (JAMB), has conducted the 2024
Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for candidates with disabilities in the country through its JAMB EQUAL OPPORTUNITY GROUP (JEOG),
Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye, the Coordinator for JEOG, Ado-Ekiti Centre,
while speaking with journalists at the Ekiti State University( EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, venue of the examination, disclosed that thirty- three candidates with disabilities drawn from Ondo and Ekiti states sat for the exam at the centre.
The Coordinator maintained that
the examination which comes up every year in 11 centres across the country, is to ensure that interested candidates with disabilities seeking university admissions are not left out in the society, noting that the exam was conducted according to the guidelines of JAMB.
READ ALSO: http://Ogun Agro-Cargo Airport to commence flight operations soon, says Gov. Abiodun
He noted that since the establishment of Jamb Equal Opportunity Group(JEOG) by the Register of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the programme has been effective, hence increase in the admission rate of people living with disabilities into higher institutions.
The Coordinator who said JEOG caters for all categories of special candidates, noted that during the exam, JAMB makes provision for the candidates’ hotel accommodations, feeding, transportation to and from their homes, among other logistics.
Earlier in his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of EKSU, Prof. Eddy Olanipekun, commended the management of JAMB for selecting the university as one of the centres for the special candidates to sit for the examination.
The VC who was represented by EKSU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development), Prof Ayantunji Adeleke, appreciated the board, saying it is a good programme to assist persons with disabilities to write UTME to get admission into tertiary institutions.
READ ALSO: http://Businesman drags Moniepoint MFB to CBN, EFCC over N700m account restriction
Mrs Adetoun Agboola, the Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, described the programme as a way of ensuring a level playing field for all candidates irrespective of their physical abilities. She urged the candidates to be positive and believe in themselves to realize their potential.
Mrs. Agboola who hailed JAMB for promoting inclusivity and diversity said that the state government was particularly impressed with the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for the initiative and appreciated JEOG’s Chairman, Prof. Peter Okebukola, for being involved in the laudable project.
She noted that the state government would continue to collaborate with the examination body, adding that the JAMB initiative was in line with the policies and programmes of the current administration in the state towards ensuring that there is equal opportunity for citizens with disabilities.
She said, ” Education is not just a critical tool for personal growth, development, and empowerment, but also a powerful instrument for breaking down barriers and overcoming stigmas, especially for persons with disabilities. It equips them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to pursue their goals and contribute meaningfully to society. The JAMB UTME Examination is a crucial step in this journey of empowerment.
“I urge you to stay positive, believe in the immense potential within each of you, and never give up on your dreams. Remember that you are not defined by your disabilities, but by your abilities. You are capable of achieving greatness, and nothing can hinder you from reaching your full potential. Your abilities are limitless, and I have no doubt that you will make a significant impact in your chosen fields.
” I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to JAMB for its tireless efforts in promoting inclusivity and diversity. Your attention to the needs of candidates with disabilities is truly commendable. Let us continue working together towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can thrive and realize their dreams.”
The governor’s aide used the medium to appeal to EKSU VC to establish department of special education in the university.
