Candidates with special needs sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation
Examination (UTME) in Ado Ekiti have been encouraged to remain focused and confident, as authorities reaffirm commitment to inclusive education and equal opportunities.
Speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU) Ado-Ekiti, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Michael Olufemi Oke, described the participation of special students in the examination as a significant opportunity. He emphasized that UTME remains a critical requirement for admission into higher institutions in Nigeria, urging them to approach the exercise with determination.
Prof. Oke noted that the initiative introduced by Prof. Is-haq Oloyede ten years ago demonstrates fairness in the system, ensuring that all candidates, regardless of physical challenges, compete on the same platform. He assured them that there are no limits to the courses they can pursue, encouraging them to remain diligent and committed throughout the examination process.
He further stated that the university has put in place adequate facilities and support systems to guarantee a seamless and stress-free experience for the candidates. According to him, the institution is fully prepared to accommodate as many candidates as possible, ensuring their comfort and optimal performance.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor also commended JAMB efforts in supporting the programme, particularly in providing free accommodation, free feeding and subdidisrd transport ftom their to the examination ceters for participants. He added that the university complements these efforts by offering transportation and examination venues, reaffirming its commitment to inclusiveness in Nigeria tertiary education.
Also speaking, the Ekiti Centre Coordinator for Ekiti State Joint Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) examination, Prof. Rashid Aderinoye, ” said the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oluyede, initiated the programme when he came on board ten years ago. He thought of how can he create opportunities for those that are disadvantaged. And among the disadvantaged , we have the people physical challenged, eye impaired, the deaf and dumb. But for the special needs, he established the group known as (JEOG) under the chairmanship of Emeritus , Prof. Peter Okebukola operating in eleven centres across the country including
Abuja, Lagos, Ado-Ekiti, Oyo, Yola, Enugu, Bauchi, Jos, Kebbi, Benin and Kano
Some of the candidates expressed optimism about their performance, with one participant, Stephen Oluwasegun, expressing confidence in his preparation, while another, Akinola Oluwatimileyin, admitted initial anxiety but said she remained hopeful of success, revealing her ambition to study Social Studies Education at the university level.
