JAMB Hosts First Africa Regional Conference on Equal Opportunity in Higher Education

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) will host its inaugural Africa Regional Conference on Equal Opportunity of Access to Higher Education (ARCEAHED) in Abuja on Tuesday. The conference, which is set to take place at the Idris Abdulkadir Conference Hall of the National Universities Commission, will focus on advancing equal opportunity in higher education for persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Africa.

With the theme “Advancing Equal Opportunity Access to Higher Education: A Call to Action,” the conference will welcome participants from Ethiopia, Malawi, Egypt, and other African nations. JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, highlighted the conference's goal to enhance accessibility and improve the learning environment in tertiary institutions for PWDs.

Prof. Oloyede emphasized the collective responsibility of stakeholders in ensuring equitable access to education. “Education is a fundamental human right. It is crucial that we not only open doors of opportunity but also ensure they are accessible to everyone, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities,” he stated.

JAMB’s Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) has been a leader in promoting inclusive education. The conference will address key challenges and explore innovative solutions to bridge the educational access gap for PWDs. Prof. Oloyede stressed the importance of inclusive education in empowering individuals and fostering economic and national development.

JAMB has implemented several strategic initiatives to support PWDs, including dedicated examination centres for candidates with disabilities who cannot use standard Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, reduced registration fees from N5,000 to N3,500 to make tertiary education more accessible, and support for special needs such as braille machines, screen readers, and other assistive tools. Additionally, JAMB provides transport, accommodation, and transit support during exams.

Prof. Oloyede also praised the Federal Government for introducing student loans inclusive of PWDs and commended the National Assembly for passing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act. He acknowledged the Ministry of Education’s endorsement of the "Strategic Roadmap for Inclusive Access to Quality Higher Education in Nigeria," which includes waivers and incentives for candidates with disabilities.

As the conference begins, stakeholders from government agencies, educational institutions, the private sector, and civil society are encouraged to collaborate with JAMB to create a more inclusive educational system. Prof. Oloyede’s closing message was a reminder that education is a right for all, not a privilege for a few.

The ARCEAHED conference aims to bring crucial issues to the forefront and enhance the wellbeing of PWDs at both national and global levels.