In a move poised to reshape the landscape of Nigerian higher education, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a significant policy shift, exempting foreign candidates, individuals with visual and hearing impairments, and prison inmates from pre-admission screening tests conducted by tertiary institutions. This decision, aimed at fostering inclusivity, will take effect during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration process.
“The Board and Tertiary Institutions have resolved that all Foreign, Blind, Deaf and Prison Inmates are to be exempted from pre-admission screening tests in their institutions of choice,” stated Mr. Johnson Adebiyi, Gombe State JAMB Coordinator, during an advocacy visit to the Nigerian Correctional Service in Gombe. This visit, part of JAMB’s broader outreach strategy, sought to familiarize inmates with the registration procedures and available waivers.
As a news writer, I’ve seen countless policies come and go. However, this particular initiative strikes a chord. It’s not just about administrative adjustments; it’s about dismantling barriers that have historically excluded marginalized groups from accessing higher education. Consider the emotional weight of this decision for a visually impaired student or an inmate seeking a chance at rehabilitation through education. It’s a powerful step towards equity.
JAMB’s commitment to inclusivity is underscored by its dedication to providing necessary support and accommodations for candidates with special needs. “This waiver is an affirmative action meant to accommodate candidates with special needs,” Adebiyi emphasized, highlighting the Board’s determination to ensure equal opportunities for all. This policy, stemming from the 2024 Policy Meeting on Admissions, mandates that tertiary institutions admit and monitor the progress of special needs candidates who meet the minimum requirements.
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The implications of this policy extend far beyond mere access. It represents a fundamental shift in how we perceive and address educational equity. By proactively identifying and supporting special needs candidates, JAMB is not only opening doors but also ensuring that these students have the resources and support they need to succeed. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), inclusive education is pivotal in fostering social cohesion and reducing inequalities. This move by JAMB aligns with global best practices, demonstrating a commitment to creating a more equitable and just society.
Furthermore, the inclusion of prison inmates in this waiver program is particularly noteworthy. As Mr. Victor Odafen, Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Gombe, rightly pointed out, “We appreciate this initiative and will take all necessary measures to ensure that qualified inmates are ready to take advantage of this opportunity.” This initiative not only offers inmates a chance at personal growth but also contributes to their successful reintegration into society upon release. Studies have shown that education significantly reduces recidivism rates, making this policy a crucial step towards rehabilitation.
JAMB has also implemented measures to prevent fraudulent activities, ensuring the integrity of the registration and examination process. The Board’s efforts to facilitate the placement of prison inmates into tertiary institutions demonstrate a holistic approach to education, recognizing its transformative power in shaping lives and communities.
In essence, JAMB’s decision to exempt special needs candidates and prison inmates from pre-admission screening tests is a testament to the Board’s commitment to inclusivity and equity. It’s a policy that not only opens doors but also paves the way for a more just and equitable future for all Nigerians.
