In a recent announcement, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) declared its intention to reimburse visually impaired candidates for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration fee. However, certain criteria must be met, as outlined by Prof. Olarenwaju Fagbohun, Lagos state coordinator for JAMB’s Equal Opportunity Group.
Prof. Fagbohun made this statement during a gathering at the Distance Learning Institute (DLI) of the University of Lagos, designated as the 2024 UTME center for visually-impaired candidates from Lagos and Ogun states. He revealed that out of the 88 candidates registered, only 82 attended, clarifying that only those visually impaired candidates who achieved five ‘O’ Level credits in one sitting are eligible for the refund.
Commending the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Is’haq Oloyede, Prof. Fagbohun emphasized the importance of recognizing the roles of visually impaired candidates and ensuring their inclusion in national opportunities. The process involves JAMB sending disaggregated lists and funds to center coordinators, who are mandated to ensure immediate reimbursement to eligible candidates.
Furthermore, Prof. Fagbohun highlighted improvements in examination accessibility, with the introduction of a ‘fully braille’ option alongside the traditional ‘read aloud’ method. Candidates can now opt to receive exam questions printed in braille, allowing them to independently read and respond using braille answer sheets.
As candidates prepare for the UTME, they will undergo examination on various subjects, including Government, Arabic, Use of English, Mathematics, and Biology, among others. JAMB remains committed to promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all Nigerian students.
