Oyebanji pledges continued support for PWDs, as JEOG conducts UTME for 32 special candidates in Ekiti
By Idowu Adebomi, Ado-Ekiti
Governor Biodun Oyebanji has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive education in Ekiti State, as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) commenced the 2025 UTME examinations for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Ado-Ekiti.
The examination exercise, which began promptly at 8:45 a.m. on Monday, April 28, was formally flagged off by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) of Ekiti State University, Professor W.O. Adebayo, at the university’s Economics Twin Lecture Hall.
In his welcome remarks, Prof. Adebayo praised the courage and determination of the candidates, saying their participation reflected the strength in their abilities rather than their limitations.
Delivering the message of the Vice Chancellor, he noted: “I am impressed with the turnout. As you can see, EKSU has the capacity to accommodate persons with disabilities. Our facilities are designed to support these types of programmes, and we are fully equipped to ensure this exam is a success.”
He further encouraged the candidates to believe in themselves and pursue excellence in any path they choose.
Earlier, the Coordinator of JEOG in Ado-Ekiti, Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye, expressed gratitude to the university management and state government for their unrelenting support.
He acknowledged the roles of JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, and Prof. Peter Okebukola for their national commitment to accessible education for PWDs.
“Ekiti is one of 11 centres nationwide hosting this special UTME, today, we have 30 out of the 32 registered candidates present. Nationwide, 531 candidates are writing this same exam. The environment here is conducive logistics, security, accommodation, and medical support have all been provided,” Aderinoye said.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Dr. (Mrs.) Adetoun Agboola, announced that the state university is finalising plans to establish a Department of Special Education specifically designed to serve students with special needs.
“This department will broaden access to higher education for graduates of special schools across the country, the Oyebanji-led government remains committed to ensuring no child is left behind, regardless of their condition.” he said.
Several candidates expressed gratitude to JEOG and the Federal Government for creating an enabling platform to pursue their academic dreams.
Accompanied by their parents and guardians, they voiced hope and determination to excel in the exams and ultimately gain admission into the universities of their choice.
The UTME for PWD candidates will continue across the 11 designated centres on April 28 and 29, 2025.