The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Abdulrazaq inaugurates Osi campus of Kwara varsity

    Abdulrazaq inaugurates Osi campus of Kwara varsity

    Kwara Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has inaugurated the Osi Campus of the state university, keeping his promise to ensure that no project is abandoned and setting off a new frontier of development in the southern axis of the State.

    Cheered by stakeholders in the region who commended his statewide achievements, the Governor said the commissioning is a lesson in history as it is a practical step to drive inclusive growth and prosperity in every part of the State. 

    “This is more than just a project commissioning. The completion of the Osi and Ilesha Baruba Campuses bears testament to my pledge that Kwara will not be a mortuary of abandoned project. 

    ”With this, we have again sent the signal that what matters to our administration is the progress of our state, not the political history of any project,” he said.

    “This is a lesson in history  and we hope it resonates across our state and among our people. In June 2021, I commissioned the Kwara Polytechnic main auditorium, which we funded to completion,  more than 20 years after its foundation was laid by the late Governor Mohammed Lawal. This is who we are! 

    “Today marks the culmination of years of commitment, resilience, and a collective resolve to expand access to quality tertiary education in Kwara State. 

    “The journey has been marked by significant challenges, including substantial inflation. This project started under the previous administration. It was later abandoned. 

    “We promised never to abandon it. And what you see here bears testimony to the power of strategic planning, prudent resource management, determination, and good conscience.

    “The two campuses, among other projects, will stimulate rapid economic growth and human capital development in these regions, foster a sense of belonging, and create new opportunities for our youths.

    “We worked tirelessly to ensure that the infrastructure you see today is up to standards, as recently confirmed by the team from the National Universities Commission. 

    “From the state-of-the-art studios, lecture halls, and laboratories to the serene learning environment, this campus reflects the commitment of our administration to sustainable development, academic excellence, and social inclusion. This effort aligns with our broader agenda of making Kwara State a hub for innovation, creativity, and technical expertise. 

    “Today, we are proud to hand over this Campus (Osi) to the community and leadership of the Kwara State University through the Ministry of Tertiary Education.

    “Osi Campus will not just be a physical structure but a beacon of hope and a testament to our hard work for future generations, our love for inclusion, economic expansion, and wellbeing of our people. 

    “As we celebrate this achievement, I call on the management, staff, and students of KWASU to take full advantage of this facility. Let this campus become a breeding ground for world-class professionals whose work will bring honour to Kwara State and Nigeria as a whole. 

    “To the host community, we thank you for your cooperation and support throughout this process. Your role in safeguarding this campus and fostering a peaceful environment cannot be overstated. I appeal to you to ensure peaceful cohabitation between the community and the institution.

    “Finally, our administration remains committed to expanding the frontiers of development across all sectors. The successes we celebrate today are the sweet fruits of the collective will and hard work of Kwarans.” 

    At the event were senior government officials, academics, royalties, and party leaders and members, including the Speaker Kwara House of Assembly Rt. Hon Yakubu Salihu Danladi, who was represented by Hon. Ganiyu Gabriel Abolarin; representative of the Minister of Culture and Tourism Barrister Biola Abdulkareem; Chairman Kwara House Committee on Education Hon. Baba Boriya; Commissioner for Tertiary Education Dr Mary Arinde; State APC Chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi; Chairman Ekiti Local Government Hon. Awelewa Olawale Gabriel; KWASU Chancellor Dr. Johnson Bamidele Adewumi; Pro-Chancellor (KWASU) Prof Abdulganiyu Ambali; Vice Chancellor KWASU Sheikh Prof. Luqman Jimoh; Head of Osi Campus Prof. Binta Ajibola Suleiman; and President Osi Welfare Association Dr. Joshua Olu Joseph.

    Others were the Olosi of Osi and Chairman Ekiti Traditional Council Oba Saliu Adasofegbe; the Olomu of Omu Aran Oba Abdulraheem Oladele Olaoti; and the Alofa of Ilofa Oba Samuel Niyi Dada Okinbaloye Aponbiepo II; among others.

    Dr Arinde said the completion of Osi and Ilesha Baruba Campuses is a bold step of the administration to bring education closer to the people, foster regional development, and empower the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary for a brighter future.

    Prof Ambali congratulated the government and Osi community on the completion of the campus, and pledged that the facility will be efficiently used.

    KWASU’s Vice Chancellor Prof Sheikh Jamiu Luqman said the new Osi campus will add immense value to the institution by fostering innovation, research, and learning in a conducive environment designed for excellence.

    “Your (Excellency’s) commitment to education has been truly remarkable. This project and the Ilesha Baruba campus are evidence of your dedication to the advancement of higher education in our state,” he said. 

    “This campus hosts the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, and about seven different programmes are to be housed in this faculty. Initially, only Fine and Applied Arts was existing. 

    “Your Excellency, I’m happy to inform you that the NUC has approved Geography and Remote Sensing, Urban and Regional Planning, and Estate Management in this campus.

    “I’m also very pleased to inform you that the students have arrived in this campus. Let me also add that we sought the approval of the NUC come next session for the following programmes namely: Architecture, and Quantity Survey.”

    Oba Adasofegbe called Governor AbdulRazaq a “man of his words” and the greatest among equals for completing the school project.

    “Your Excellency, you are a man of his words, amiable, compassionate, magnanimous, progressive, and considerate,” he said.

    The monarch listed the asphalt overlay on Osi township road, provision of electric transformers to different communities; provision of motor vans and bikes for vigilantes, ICT Centres for e-learning in schools; renovation of classrooms; and the construction of Osi-Obbo-Aiyegunle road as some of the projects of the present administration in Osi community.

  • 16 bags First Class as 345 graduate from Fountain Varsity

    16 bags First Class as 345 graduate from Fountain Varsity

    …we attracted €46,000 in scholarships for 155 students instead of student loans—VC

    No fewer than 16 students have bagged First-Class Degrees as 345 graduated from Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State. 

    The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Ramota Karim, during the press briefing to herald the 14th convocation on Wednesday, also highlighted the achievements of the school, including academic and infrastructural development. 

    She said: “For the 14th convocation, our university celebrates the academic accomplishments of 345 graduates across sub-degree, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. 

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    “The university will confer diplomas, first degrees, and higher degrees as follows: 315 First Degrees, with 16 achieving First-Class Honours, 105 earning Second-Class Upper Division, 120 attaining Second-Class Lower Division, and 37 securing Third Class. 

    “For the B.N.Sc. Nursing Science programme, we proudly recognise 2 graduates with Distinctions, 33 with Credits, and 3 with Pass grades.” 

    Speaking about the exclusion of private universities from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), she said, “We are yet to be accommodated in the scheme, and our admonition to the FG is to ensure that they include our students in the scheme. 

    “However, because our students are not included in the scheme, we are very proactive in assisting them financially, which is why we sought donors and attracted €46,000 for scholarships for 155 students.”

  • Kwara hires 1,811 basic school teachers, attendants

    Kwara hires 1,811 basic school teachers, attendants

    Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KWSUBEB) said it has shortlisted 1,811 applicants for employment following the recent process involving at least 55,713 applicants from across the state. 

    The breakdown of the successful applicants included 1,500 teachers, mostly from STEM subjects and 311 non-teaching staff comprising drivers, security guards and office assistants for schools in the 16 local government areas. 

    “Successful applicants with valid phone numbers have since been contacted for their letters. Documentation started on Monday, January 6, with successful applicants from Kwara North, Tuesday, January 7, is for new hires from Kwara South, while Wednesday, January 8, is for successful candidates from Kwara Central,” according to a statement by the KWSUBEB Chairman Prof. Sheu Raheem Adaramaja. 

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    “Documents required during documentation include original and two photocopies of all credentials; two file jackets and tags; citizenship certificate; two passport photographs; bond signing; biodata form to be filled, among other things,” the statement added.

    Adaramaja said the process focused more on hiring persons who would stay in their place of assignment, underscoring why the board sought nominations of competent and qualified hands from rural communities to bridge the manpower need in the hinterlands.

  • Lagos, Osun schools record poor turnout on first day of resumption

    Lagos, Osun schools record poor turnout on first day of resumption

    • FCT makes over 90% school resumption rate

    • Era of mass promotion of pupils has ended, says Lagos govt

    There was a low turnout of pupils in most primary and secondary schools across Lagos and Osun states as academic activities started yesterday for the second term of the 2024/2025 session.

    Our correspondent who visited some of the schools discovered that many pupils did not turn up for the resumption.

    Authorities of the schools attributed the low turnout to the festive period celebration.

    An administrator at Kelvent Group of Schools at Ipaja in Alimoso Local Government Area of Lagos State, who identified herself simply as Mrs. Osemeke, told our correspondent that most schools might not start academic activities in the first week of resumption.

    She said most schools yesterday revised what they taught the pupils before the first term holiday.

    “We are just resuming today and you don’t expect the population to be huge. Some of them travelled and some are still resting at home.

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    “The state government ordered us to resume today and we had to. By next week, schools will fully resume. This week is for revision. We close by 2 p.m., just for this week.”

    Commenting on the rumoured increase in school fees, Mrs. Osemeke said: “We are not increasing our school fee. We don’t increase school fee anyhow. We don’t inconvenience our parents, regardless of the economic hardship.

    “Some bigger school might increase their fees and their parents might comply, but we can’t. This is because if we do, we would lose our students drastically. We didn’t increase the fee for our school bus either, regardless of the hike in the price of diesel.”

    But the Head of Department at Big Soar International School, Ms. Faith, told The Nation that the school recorded a high turnout of pupils.

    “Our pupils reported to school very well today. We didn’t increase our school fee at all. Not anytime from now,” she said.

    A pupil of SVF College at Ayobo, Miss Favour Peters, said: “Students have not resumed fully. We only wrote the scheme of work. Our classrooms are empty. I would advise all the students who have not resumed to resume next week.”

    Another pupil of Oba Marouf School in the area, Ola Akinbambi, said: “Our classroom was filled up with pupils. We wrote a resumption test, but we were not taught anything.”

    A teacher at Oshodi Community Secondary School, who did not want to be named, blamed parents for the low turnout of pupils.

    “Some of our pupils are yet to resume. Some are yet to come back from their villages after the Christmas break. But that is the decision of the parents. We can’t tell parents what to do when it comes to their children,” she said.

    Also, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, some primary and secondary schools recorded low turnout of pupils as schools resumed for second term 2024/2025 academic session.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent who visited some of the schools in Ile-Ife and its environs observed that only few students were in their schools.

    At Ooni Girls’ High School, Oke-Ogbo, Ile-Ife, few pupils were seen in their classrooms while the teachers were busy taking attendance.

    NAN reports that some other students were also seen cleaning their classrooms and the school’s premises.

    The Head Teacher, Mrs. Oluremi Oladapo, attributed the low turnout to the fact that it was almost normal on the first day of resumption.

    According to her, the low turnout is not strange on every resumption day, particularly at the beginning of the term.

    Also, at St. Michael Anglican Primary School, Elekolo, Ile-Ife, only few pupils were seen in most of the classrooms.

    NAN observed that skeletal academic activities were rendered to the few pupils that reported.

    The Head Teacher, Mrs. Helen Adelani, decried the low turnout of pupils, despite the fact that all the teachers were present.

    There was also a low turnout of pupils at Royal International Schools, Oke-Ogbo Road, Ilode, where only a few of them were having lessons in their classrooms.

    The school proprietor, Mr. Monday Egobudike, said some parents believed that the first week of resumption was for skeletal work and general cleaning of the premises.

    At L. A. Primary School, Oke-Ogbo, Area, Ile-Ife, few pupils were seen in their classrooms.

    The Head Teacher, Mrs. Amuda Eluyefa, noted that the low turnout was usually experienced on the first day of resumption.

    She hailed the state government for providing quality education for the pupils, and called for more stationery for the school.

    But there was an impressive turnout of pupils and teachers across the schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) yesterday.

    FCT’s Secretary of Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, visited the Government Senior School (GSS) and Junior Secondary School in Wuse Zone 3 of Abuja.

    Others are the Government Science Technical College (GSTC) at Area 3, Garki, Abuja; the Department of Mass Education (DME) Learning Centre (AMAC), Wuse Zone 6, and a private school, Olumawu School in Wuse II, Abuja.

    After monitoring the students’ and teachers’ resumption, Dr. Hayyo expressed satisfaction with the development.

    He said: “I’m very impressed with the situation. I think the resumption rate is almost 99 per cent. So, what I want to advise is that they should appreciate the effort of the Minister of the FCT, because I know what inputs he has made to ensure the environment is conducive for all.

    “If you look at the FCT schools now, it is clear that the minister is trying to transform the education structure, whereby many schools witness a lot of renovation.

    “We are expecting the completion of the ongoing renovation in schools in the next months; that is before the end of this term. We hope the contractors handling them will finish their respective projects.”

    The Director/Principal of Government Science Technical College (GSTC) at Area 3 in Garki, Abuja, James Musa Kuta, attributed the impressive turnout to improved outlook of the learning facilities, due to the ongoing upgrading of FCT schools.

    Also, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamie Alli-Balogun, yesterday said the era of mass promotion of pupils in the state had ended.

    He warned that teachers caught extorting money from pupils to award marks to them would be dismissed.

    Alli-Balogun spoke yeterday while monitoring schools’ resumption across the state.

    The commissioner told principals, vice principals and teachers that students who do not qualify for the next class should repeat.

    “Those selling marks should be warned because any teacher caught doing that will be shown the way out,” he said.

    Alli-Balogun urged teachers to cooperate with the state government to achieve better learning outcomes.

    “The government cannot invest so much in education and not get value for the money.

    “You are all employed to ensure that students have access to best teaching and learning processes. Ensure regular assessments, including weekly tests for students.

    “More attention should be given to those who need extra support.

    The commissioner enjoined teachers to approach the new term with a renewed zeal.

    “I will be coming around regularly. The only way to assess your commitment is the performance of students.”

  • JAMB remits N6b to Fed Govt coffers after 2024 UTME

    JAMB remits N6b to Fed Govt coffers after 2024 UTME

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has said it remitted over N6 billion to the Federal Government’s coffers as part of its operating surplus.

    The board said it did this after conducting last year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    The JAMB said it has, in the past seven years under its Registrar/Chief Executive, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, contributed over N50 billion as an operating surplus to the national treasury.

    Its Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, gave the details of the remittances in the board’s Bulletin released yesterday in Abuja.

    The JAMB said it generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25 and spent N18,198,739,362.68 in 2024 on the conduct of UTME, paid service providers, and settled essential expenses, including workers’ claims amounting to N2,119,571,022.88.

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    The board said it reaped in 2024 the rewards of the various innovations it had implemented for some years.

    It explained that one area where the board had demonstrated commendable courage over the years was in enhancing accountability, transparency, and openness in its financial practices.

    The JAMB recalled that since 2017, it has consistently provided weekly income and expenditure reports for public scrutiny.

    Looking ahead, the board reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining accountability, transparency, and openness in all financial dealings.

    It said: “As we reflect on 2024, it is essential to uphold our commitment to transparency by sharing our financial performance for the year. In 2024, the board generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25. From this amount, it expended N18,198,739,362.68 towards conducting examinations (UTME), paid service providers, and covered essential expenses, including workers’ claims amounting to N2,119,571,022.88.

    “Upon assuming office, Professor Is-haq Oloyede’s management team prioritised financial responsibility. In line with government regulations, it remitted over N7 billion from its operational surplus during the first year.

    “Additionally, management initiated a programme to give back to candidates by reducing the cost of its application documents by N1,500, a practice that has continued with subsequent remittances to the federal treasury.

    “In 2024, the board remitted N6,034,605,510.69 to the government. When combined with the N1,500 reduction per form for candidates multiplied by the number of candidates that benefited in 2024, the total remittance by JAMB would amount to N9,013,068,510.69.

    “Looking ahead to 2025, the board remains committed to maintaining accountability, transparency, and openness in all financial dealings. The board will also continue to ensure equity and fairness for all candidates in the admission process, which remains its core mandate.”

    The JAMB also highlighted various reforms its management under Prof. Oloyede initiated over the years, culminating in significant achievements and recognition in 2024.

    The board recalled that at a roundtable organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) a year ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, praise JAMB and specifically highlighted Prof. Oloyede’s exemplary character, purposeful leadership, and prudent management of resources.

    “This recognition was underscored by the board’s remarkable contribution of N50 billion as an operating surplus to the national treasury over the past seven years,” JAMB said.

    Also, the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) had shortly after rated JAMB highly in its performance index using its Self-Assessment Tool (SAT).

    During an official visit to JAMB’s national headquarters at Bwari in Abuja on March 19, 2024, BPSR’s Director-General, Dr. Dasuki Arabi, hailed the board for its commitment to efficient service delivery and acknowledged Prof. Oloyede’s visionary leadership.

    In response to the government’s confidence in JAMB, the board was asked to combat the prevalence of fake degrees and certificates in the country.

    To enhance its efforts in this area, JAMB collaborated with relevant agencies, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

    In April 2024, this partnership was formalised to protect the integrity of tertiary education certificates, helping to identify fraudulent candidates seeking to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.

  • Oyedepo: over 90% of Covenant varsity’s graduates employable

    Oyedepo: over 90% of Covenant varsity’s graduates employable

    The Chancellor of Covenant University at Ota in Ogun State, Bishop David Oyedepo, has said over 90 per cent of the university’s graduates are employable.

    Oyedepo said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Ota.

    According to him, this is evidenced in Covenant topping the list of Nigerian universities with the most employable graduates, with more than 90 per cent employability rating.

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    “The university’s leadership development studies equipped our graduates with the leadership skills and competencies that prepared them for the tasks ahead.

    “In addition, these skills equip our graduates with insight and proffer solutions to numerous challenges confronting the nation as well as the global world,” he said.

    Oyedepo advised higher institutions to intensify efforts to embark on more meaningful research that would solve the problems of the nation without depending on foreign solutions.

  • Pantami hails FUTO’s landmark ICT conference

    Pantami hails FUTO’s landmark ICT conference

    The inaugural International ICT Conference, hosted by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) has been celebrated as a resounding success, receiving accolades from Professor Ali Isa Pantami, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy.

    Organised by the School of Information and Communications Technology (SICT), the conference attracted a distinguished assembly of experts and scholars from around the globe, including participants from Nigeria, Europe, America, and Asia.

    The opening ceremony was graced by notable figures, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and FUTO Vice Chancellor Professor Nnenna Otti. Pantami, who chaired the International Organizing Committee, serves as a Professor of Cybersecurity at FUTO.

    Pantami highlighted the importance of such platforms in enhancing collaboration among global scholars, industry leaders, and policymakers while also harnessing the transformative potential of Industry 4.0 technologies in developing nations.

    “The conference tackled the implications of Industry 4.0 technologies, covering a spectrum of sub-themes such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital agriculture,” he said. “It has underscored the vast potential for institutions in developing countries to shape global dialogues around technological innovation.”

    The conference facilitated the formation of new relationships with international experts, most notably with acclaimed scholar Professor Mike Hinchey. Pantami expressed optimism that these partnerships will catalyze significant knowledge exchange and research collaboration.

    He emphasized that the event strengthened the synergies between academia, government, and industry—drawing parallels with the highly acclaimed Triple Helix Model at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which has proven vital in fostering worldwide innovation.

    Central to the discussions was the transformative impact of Industry 4.0 technologies. Participants stressed the urgent need to develop proactive strategies that tackle the challenges and harness the opportunities presented by this industrial revolution, particularly in the African context.

    Additionally, the conference served as a valuable platform for academics—especially those who may have been unable to attend international conferences—to engage in collaborative research and knowledge sharing.

    Beyond academic discussions, the event incorporated networking opportunities, receptions, and cultural tours, enriching the overall experience and encouraging social and cultural exchange among participants from diverse backgrounds.

    Professor Pantami extolled the conference as a pivotal step forward in addressing Africa’s developmental challenges through collaborative innovation and knowledge sharing. The event garnered widespread acclaim, with Tech Digest acknowledging its profound impact.

    The conference highlighted the potential for collaborations between academia, government, and industry as essential drivers of innovation. It also reinforces FUTO’s position as a leader in driving talks on technological advancement in developing nations.

  • Struggles of visually-impaired students in accessing exam websites

    Struggles of visually-impaired students in accessing exam websites

    In Nigeria, it is no longer business as usual with the advent of technology and digital usage, and as such, the digital landscape is rapidly evolving, especially in the areas of education and information access. For visually-impaired students, navigating the digital landscape of examination registrations with bodies like the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC), the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) can present significant challenges, highlighting the need for inclusive digital public infrastructure, JUSTINA ASISHANA writes.

    Experiences of visually-impaired students

    Danlami Usman, 23, a visually-impaired young man who lives in Minna, narrated that he took the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations last year. His school registered him for the examinations and so he did not face any hurdle in the process. He, however, said that his challenge came from accessing his results, pointing out that while his mates, who did not have the same challenge as he, bought their scratch cards and could check their results easily. He had to rely on his younger brother to help him check his results.

    But, Mary Madaki had to go to a cyber cafe to register for the 2023 NECO external SSCE, making her rely on the operator of the cyber cafe and her cousin, who accompanied her, to ensure that the right information was correctly filled in.

    “We had to go over it and over again just to ensure that everything is correct, but I know that if it is someone that sees, the person would have been following the operator as he fills the form or possibly fill the form themselves. But I had to tell my cousin to be very attentive to ensure the spelling was correct so that there would not be an issue when I wanted to sit for the examination. So, for what someone can spend 20 minutes on, I spent over an hour on it,” she recounted.

    However, the visually-impaired students alternatively can rely on assistive technologies like Job Access With Speech (JAWS) and Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA) to navigate digital platforms. These screen readers convert text to speech, enabling users to interact with web content. However, the effectiveness of these tools is contingent upon the accessibility features of the websites in question.

    According to the 2021 Mobile Disability Gap Report by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), only 16 per cent of people with disabilities (PWDs) on the continent use the internet.

    According to the Vice Chairman of the Niger State chapter of the Joint Association of People Living with Disabilities, Mr. Mohammed Mohammed, the primary determinant of successful navigation is the user’s computer literacy and the presence of necessary assistive applications on their devices. He noted that while some visually-impaired individuals possess personal laptops equipped with these tools, others depend on internet cafes, where assistance is provided by operators. This dependency, he said, underscores the variability in user experience, influenced by individual resources and technical proficiency.

    “I want to inform you that there are some visually-impaired who are computer literate. If they do have their laptops, they can register or check their results directly without any issues. As long as they are computer literate, the issue of navigation is all about the laptop or the system you are using for that purpose. If the computer they are using has talkback like the JAWS or NVDE, they will be able to navigate easily.

    “The NVDE is a talkback, just like JAWS. So, whatever you touch in the computer, any of these two apps that you have will tell you or rather speak to you. Once their laptops have those facilities, we call them accessibility facilities. Once the accessibility facilities are available there, of course, they can navigate through the website, because anywhere they go, it will tell them where they are going. Once the computer has these facilities, they operate it freely like any other person who sees it. What is key is for them to be computer literate. The website must not come with it. It is only your laptop that should have it. Just where you have some apps on your handset. So, it should be there on your laptop. Of course, you know, the laptop should have some of these applications in it.

     “So, it depends on who is going for the exams and if the person is computer literate or not. For those who are not computer literate, they can go to a cyber cafe and the operator there can assist them. They will ask them questions while they sit and they help them fill the forms and submit them. The operator does the typing for the person.”

    Institutional responses and provisions

    The general requirement for a candidate for Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is for them to generate a profile code where they use their phone number to send an SMS to a dedicated number, which would, in turn, send a profile code to them, which can be used to purchase the E-pin. Thereafter, they are to visit the JAMB profile before visiting the JAMB CBT centre for biometric capture. After this, they fill out the online form by providing their academic qualifications, personal information and choice of institution.

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    Special candidates, who include people with disabilities, are also to go through the same process to purchase the registration PIN through any accredited channel, set up their profile just like the other candidates, go to the CBT centre and provide the medical report during registration, which will help determine if any accommodations are needed. In accredited CBT centres, assistance is said to be made available for candidates with impairments. The attendants in the centre would help them fill in the required details on the JAMB registration portal and print their slips for reference.

    In 2024, JAMB, being supportive of visually-impaired candidates, reduced registration fees for candidates with disabilities, lowering the cost from N5,000 to N3,500 and demonstrating a commitment to making examinations more accessible.  Additionally, JAMB provides special arrangements, such as separate centres and extra time during examinations, to accommodate the needs of these candidates.

    Similarly, NECO acknowledges the importance of inclusivity. The Director of Information of the NECO told The Nation that during examinations, provisions are made for visually-impaired candidates, including additional time to complete their exams.

    He, however, said that the registration process often relies on schools to act on behalf of candidates, which may not fully address the autonomy and accessibility needs of visually-impaired students, especially those registering independently.

     “We have not been having any complaints from people who are visually-impaired in having access to our websites. During our examinations, we make special provisions for the physically impaired, like the blind; we also make provisions for people with albinism. We give them additional 30 minutes. For the visually impaired too, we give them additional 30 minutes during our exam so that they will be able to meet up with others.

    “People with disabilities have been participating actively in all our examinations. Both the SSCE, BECE, National Common Entrance and the National Gifted Examination. For the registration, in most cases, it is the school that does the registration on behalf of the candidates; even for those that are not physically-impaired, it is the school authorities that do that. Except for the external exam, where maybe those who are physically-impaired may seek for the assistance of their relations or friends to help them do that,” he said.

     The role of digital literacy and assistive technologies

    Digital literacy and access to assistive technologies are pivotal in bridging the accessibility gap. Digital literacy is not just computer literacy; rather it is the ability to use digital technologies for information exchange across digital platforms.

     Initiatives like the “Break the Bias” project, led by Oluwakemi Odusanya, aim to empower visually- impaired women through digital literacy training. By equipping participants with computer skills and proficiency in screen reader software, such programmes enhance the ability of visually impaired individuals to navigate digital platforms independently.

    Further research showed the need for assistive technologies in educational settings. A study focusing on visually-impaired students at the Nigerian Law School by Nnamdi S. Ozor highlights that proficiency in digital literacy and the use of assistive tools are enablers of academic performance. The study advocates for the integration of such technologies to facilitate better access to educational resources and platforms.

     Challenges and the path forward

    Despite the efforts put in by these examination bodies, challenges persist. The cost of acquiring assistive technologies and the necessary training remains a significant barrier for many visually impaired individuals. Moreover, the design of some educational websites does not fully comply with accessibility standards, limiting the effectiveness of screen readers and other assistive tools. Only a handful of apps and websites in Nigeria are accessible to PWDs, according to a recent survey of some blind and visually-impaired people in the country.

    In a panel titled: “Technology and Disability” at the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica) 2024, several barriers were outlined regarding why the digital inclusion of PWDs remains a persisting issue on the continent.

    Barriers to progress include high illiteracy rates among this group, high poverty levels that hinder access to smartphones and assistive technologies (e.g. screen readers), low digital skills, and the inaccessibility of digital products and services across the continent.

    According to Mohammed, the call is to the government and other organisations to make these assistive technologies affordable for people with visual impairments as the high cost of the software often make it difficult for them to be digitally literate.

    “Anything that has to do with the visually-impaired, particularly in terms of education, is expensive. Let me just be honest with you, they really need these technological devices for them to be able to access educational materials and that is why you can see many of them have refused to go further than secondary education. Like I’m telling you about a laptop, an average laptop now costs more than N100,000.  Even if you get a laptop, you don’t stop there because they will need the apps.

    “Like the JAWS I talked about now, you have to buy it online, which is expensive. For someone without visual impairment, you do not need any JAWS in your laptop. So, once you buy a laptop, you are good to go but for the visually- impaired, it’s not about buying the laptop alone. It’s about also getting money to buy the app or software.

    “The government needs to make it affordable for them. Otherwise, it’s not easy. It’s rather on the high side. For example, someone without visual impairment will spend N100 for registering for an examination online but in their own case, they will spend N500.

    “Just imagine now, someone who is visual impaired want to go to a cafe. If he’s not familiar with the terrain, he will have to get somebody to accompany him there. So, you can see, as I said, our life generally is expensive and for those of us, who have gotten the privilege to have seen the four corners of the universities, know how difficult and expensive it is,” he said.

    An educationist, Chuwodi Ikem, said to foster a more inclusive digital environment, examination bodies and educational institutions must prioritise web accessibility in their digital infrastructure.

    According to him, this includes adhering to international accessibility standards, providing alternative text for images, ensuring keyboard navigability, and offering user-friendly interfaces compatible with screen readers.

    As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation in education, the inclusion of visually-impaired students must remain a central consideration. By enhancing digital public infrastructure to accommodate assistive technologies and investing in digital literacy programmes, stakeholders can ensure that all students, regardless of visual ability, have equitable access to educational opportunities and resources.

    This report is produced under the DPI Africa Journalism Fellowship Programme of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Co-Develop.

  • Expert seeks stakeholders’ collaboration in addressing bullying, assault in schools

    Expert seeks stakeholders’ collaboration in addressing bullying, assault in schools

    A child Advocate, Dr. Rosemary Odigbo, has called for collaboration of stakeholders in addressing bullying and assaults in schools.

    Odigbo, the Oyo State Coordinator of Child Protection Network Nigeria, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan.

    She stressed the need for parents and communities to collaborate with local organisations and law enforcement agencies to address bullying and assaults in schools.

    According to her, bullying and assault among students have become an alarming trend, with devastating physical, emotional and psychological consequences for the victims.

    She further stated that victims of assault and bullying often faced profound and long-lasting consequences.

    Odigbo listed the consequences to include: emotional trauma, physical harm, social isolation, academic decline and loss of trust.

    “There is the need to support victims and ensure accountability for perpetrators through appropriate interventions and consequences.

    “Establishment of a zero-tolerance policy that will clearly define unacceptable behaviour and communicate consequences is very important.

    “Monitoring high-risk areas, such as playgrounds, hallways, cafeterias and toilets is also necessary.

    “We need to implement evidence-based programmes and train teachers and staff on recognising and responding to bullying and assault incidents.

    “There is also the need to establish a confidential reporting system for victims and witnesses,” she said.

    Odigbo emphasised the importance of supporting victims by giving them counselling, academic support and protection from retaliation.

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    “There is the need to foster a positive school culture to promote empathy, inclusivity and respect among students, teachers and staff.

    “We need to develop a restorative justice approach that focuses on repairing harm, promoting healing and encouraging accountability.

    “We owe it to our children to create schools where they feel safe, valued and empowered to learn and grow,” she said.

    According to the child advocate, addressing these challenges head-on is essential to protect the well-being and future of the children.

  • Corps member creates platform for innovators’ exploration

    Corps member creates platform for innovators’ exploration

    A serving member of Nigeria Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and an alumnus of University of Lagos (UNILAG), Johnson Olamilekan, has created a platform for innovators to show their skills and ideas to investors, while gaining actionable insights from top industry experts.

    At the maiden edition of World Summit Awards (WSA), Nigeria Entrepreneurship and Innovation Conferences (NEIC) 2024, held recently at Faculty of Social Science lecture theatre at UNILAG, six innovators out of 150 participants, made it to the grand finale after a three-day virtual boot camp.

    The six innovators are Farmeley, Verion X, Apere, Varsigram, AptConnect and Creststudy.

    Creststudy is an innovative EdTech platform designed to empower tertiary university students with right tools to achieve academic goals. AptConnect is a property technology solution that enables renters rent apartment directly with the landlord. VerionX is an EdTech and Jobtech platform dedicated to bridging the gap between education and employment for African youth.

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    The event also featured two panel sessions that centred on ecosystem.

    Speaking on the theme: Promoting digital innovations geared towards creating sustainable solution, Olamilekan stated that WSA serves as a platform where young innovators showcase what they have and probably get access to funding and investors.

    “This conference is not just celebrating innovators. It is promoting sustainable innovations that solve global and future challenges. We train young entrepreneurs to become future global leaders. We help them with mentorship and connection.

    “During our virtual boot camp, we had over 150 registered applicants for the boot camp. We had about 12 industry experts that led it. The six innovators that were selected passed the criteria that we used.

    “We showcase their potentials by creating a platform for the innovators and award them. They get to connect with global sponsors and have access to funding,” he said.

    Deputy Vice Chancellor UNILAG, Prof. Ayodele Victoria Atsenuwa, emphasised that the institution is bent on financially supporting students, who have good innovative business ideas. She added that the current VC is passionate on digitalising the institution.

    “UNILAG is committed in digitalising its whole community. This is one of the visions of the current vice chancellor. We had started, but she has taken us beyond what it was that we are going to do.

    “We were digitalising in bits and pieces, but now, the goal is to go digital completely. At the last council meeting, we had early this month, we had the approval to go into the first phase of the digitalisation of the entire University of Lagos. We are at the push of one button. Everybody, who is enabled to have access, would know what’s going on,” she said.