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JAMB's Inclusive Drive Sees 101 Physically Challenged Candidates Sit UTME in Lagos​

In a commendable stride towards inclusive education, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) facilitated the participation of 501 physically challenged candidates in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) across Nigeria. Notably, Lagos State hosted 107 of these candidates, the highest number nationwide.​

 

These examinations were conducted in 11 specialized centers, including locations in Lagos, Oyo, Kano, Enugu, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The initiative was coordinated by the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), established in 2017 under the leadership of JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. JEOG aims to provide equitable access to higher education for candidates with disabilities.

 

To ensure a conducive examination environment, JAMB covered all associated costs for the candidates, including transportation, accommodation, and personal aides. Additionally, candidates had the option to choose between Braille or Read-Aloud formats for the examination, catering to individual preferences and needs.​

 

Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, lauded JAMB's efforts, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in education. She highlighted that over 70% of last year's physically challenged UTME candidates secured admission into tertiary institutions, underscoring the success of such inclusive initiatives.

 

This initiative not only reflects JAMB's commitment to inclusivity but also sets a precedent for other educational bodies to follow, ensuring that no candidate is left behind due to physical challenges.