Over 500 blind candidates are set to take the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in 11 centres nationwide.
Professor Emeritus Peter Okebukola, Chairman of the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), confirmed the number while preparing for the examination.
Established in 2017 by JAMB Registrar, Professor Oloyede, the JEOG ensures smooth administration of UTME for blind and special needs candidates. Okebukola praised Oloyede’s leadership, noting Nigeria’s leadership in providing equal opportunities for blind candidates in Africa.
This year, 501 blind candidates registered, and the UTME will be held from April 28-29, 2025.
The candidates will take the same test as regular candidates, with no standards lowered. Additionally, 84 qualified blind candidates will have their UTME registration fees refunded.
Oloyede’s support for blind candidates includes free hotel accommodations, Braille slates, transport subsidies, and meals during the exam.
“No other African country offers such support,” said Okebukola.
For the second time, JAMB will offer bimodal test administration, giving candidates the option of Fully-Braille or Fully Read-Aloud modes.
The administration is backed by trained professionals, including former vice-chancellors who oversee the 11 centres.
In 2024, about 70% of JEOG candidates, including blind and albino candidates, were offered university admission in various fields like law, medicine, and engineering.