The 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is set to accommodate 577 blind candidates across 11 centres nationwide, according to Emeritus Professor Peter Okebukola, Chairman of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG).
Prof. Okebukola highlighted that this year marks the first implementation of the bimodal system of UTME administration, offering candidates the choice between Fully-Braille and Fully Read-Aloud modes. The JEOG has been equipped by JAMB to ensure a pleasant experience for candidates in both modes.
The increase in the number of blind candidates participating in the 2024 UTME, compared to previous years, is attributed to heightened advocacy efforts by the JEOG. Prof. Okebukola commended Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB, for his commitment to equal opportunity in access to higher education.
As part of efforts to support blind candidates, those who meet admission requirements will have their UTME registration costs refunded on-site during the examination. Prof. Oloyede has also provided additional support since 2017, including free hotel accommodation, Braille slates and styluses, customised t-shirts, free meals, and transport supplementation for candidates and their guides.
Prof. Okebukola has nominated Prof. Oloyede for the CNN Heroes Award, acknowledging his significant contributions to promoting equal opportunity in education. He emphasized the importance of continuing to support Prof. Oloyede’s nomination until he is recognized with the award.
The distribution of candidates across centres is organized with the assistance of former Vice-Chancellors, ensuring effective coordination. The examination, scheduled for April 22 and 23, will cover 20 subjects, maintaining consistent standards for blind candidates as for regular candidates.
