The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the exemption of foreign candidates, blind and deaf students, as well as prison inmates from the pre-admission screening tests conducted by tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
This decision is part of JAMB’s continuous efforts to promote inclusivity in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration process.
Gombe State JAMB Coordinator, Mr. Johnson Adebiyi, made this announcement during an advocacy visit to the Nigerian Correctional Service in Gombe. The visit aimed to educate inmates on the registration process and inform them about available waivers for eligible candidates.
“The Board and tertiary institutions have resolved that all foreign candidates, blind and deaf students, and prison inmates are to be exempted from pre-admission screening tests at their institutions of choice,” Adebiyi stated.
Support for Special Needs Candidates
Adebiyi reaffirmed JAMB’s commitment to inclusivity, emphasizing that candidates with special needs would receive the necessary support and accommodations to ensure equal educational opportunities. He explained that this waiver is an affirmative action designed to remove barriers for special needs students and other marginalized groups.
“This policy ensures that special needs candidates, who meet the specified minimum requirements, are admitted and their progress is monitored in their respective institutions,” Adebiyi added.
Each year, JAMB will provide a list of special needs candidates to tertiary institutions for reference and necessary action. The Board has also implemented measures to prevent fraudulent activities and has facilitated the placement of prison inmates in tertiary institutions, assisting in their reintegration into society.
Appreciation from the Nigerian Correctional Service
The Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Gombe, Mr. Victor Odafen, praised JAMB for this initiative, stating, “We appreciate this effort and will take all necessary measures to ensure that qualified inmates benefit from this opportunity.”
Broader Implications
The exemption of these groups from pre-admission screening aligns with national efforts to enhance access to education. The waiver allows prison inmates to pursue higher education, aiding in their rehabilitation and reintegration. Similarly, blind and deaf students will have an easier pathway to tertiary education without additional screening hurdles.
By eliminating barriers, JAMB continues to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of their circumstances, has access to quality education and a chance to build a better future.